Saturday Evening Mail, Volume 5, Number 47, Terre Haute, Vigo County, 22 May 1875 — Page 1

Vol. 5.—No. +7

THE MAIL

A PAPER FOR TH PEOPLE.

THE DAYS ARE GOIXG Y.

Th«-rf an? lonely h»-nrts to cherish, While the tiny* nre going by: There are wenry souls that nerlsii,

While the days are going by Bus If a smile we can renew, A* our Journey wo pursn-, O, the good w» all may do,

W I)tie the days are going hy.

There's no tlmo for Idle w-ornlng, While the day's are going by Let «nr face be like the inornlng-

W hi le the days are got ng by 1, the world It suU of sighsiae wuriu IV*«^W. ull of sad and weeping «*\rs— ~elp your fallen brother riw,

Wlille the days are going by.

All the loving links that bind us,

While the days are going I leave behind u*, mis ^ys are going by But the seeds of good we Both in shade and shine shail grow, And shall keep our hearts aglow,

One by one we till

While the days are passing by.

Malcolm, the Avenger

on,

TSB XT6TXBZ098 IFLJBDFB,

BY HARRISON AINSWORTH. A croon or "Town niLt," BAVTLHD AT LAST,

"A

TALE OF Mrsrjutr," etc., STC.

CHAPTER I.

WALTKBS* BSQUEST.

"Hallo! What on earth brought yon fcere, Rob "Whata fire you do keep!" grumbled Walton, as he seized the poker and stirred *it vigorously. "It's been keeping itself for these last two hours," was the reply. "You came just in time to rouse both that and I for we were mutually sinking fast into inanity."

You don't mean to say you've been sitting there for two hours, literally doing nothiiuf? —you who so often sneer at tho emptiness of my |ur8uits criod Walters, sarcastically. "My dear boy, you need not tear up my •newspaper till I have rea.l it," was the (placid reply "and you ought not require tolling that there are moments when a man onay employ himself well in doing nothing but linking—reviewing the past, for instance, and meditating upon tho lessons that may be drawn from it."

Walters shrugged his shoulders, and drew a chair up to the cheerful glow he imd succoeded in arousing.

The foregoing conversation took place on a dull rainy day in March, 1847, between Robert Walters and his cousin, Charles Malcolm, in the lattor's offloe, in Temple Bar, London, where he professed to study jaw, when ho did anything.

Robort Walters, voung.gay, and remarkably handsom*. tne owner of two fine «3tates in one of the midland counties, seme valuable West Indian plantations, inherited from his mother, and the most expensively fitted up bachelor's residence at the West End, ho was, in tho eyes of the 'many, one of the most fortunate and enviable of men.

Mr. Walters was qn!i» ca^Mo of appreciating his good gift* S'ot, perhaps, in the highoet sotine of tin- phrase, for he rarely raised his thought* to the Giver of all but ho enjoyed, alter a lazy, luxurious fashion, ho advantages his wealth procured him. JLlo entered with x-'st into all the amusements of his age and position betted a little kept a racer or two, and a pack of Jiounds and hod a feminine love of fine linen, jewelry and jM«rfmuo.t. He was not above feoliug a little exultation whefc a pretty woman pntisod to son languishing glances after him or oae of the street Arabs who dodged uuder hU hoiau's heels, recognised aud saucily hailed him as "hand* «omo Rob Wultors."

As a matturof course, had a large •circle of friends and acquaint uttes but of intimates only one—his ooiuin, Charles Malcolm a flue-looking Scotchman, greatly his superior in intellect whose income placed him above all suspicion of toadyism, und who was in every respect Robert Walter's opposite.

They rarely agreed upon any point thoy •discussed, and tho firmer-principled Malcolm stubbornly IK* farw against many -of his gayer *i«lat».«'i puwuita while "Walters, who was easily otfcudwl, and as quickly appeased, had repmntdiy quarreled with his oousin, ami angrily vowed to -cut his acquaintance alto^tber. "If suchretrospection," reamed Walters, "would make me look as gl as my adTiaer.let it go. FU h**e IMH» -d it. 1

5IU\l

ItSstl

hope

you're not going to in9i»i V.. 4 an hour's moral reflection* upon me a* tv.a fruits of your meditations." "By no means, shiH k*p them for t\os*"who would haw wit euo^h to understand them." 1'h.ii.£: you for that vffiff palitsr Sp®*th," rjtviUnt Waiter*, half oiSksivd ai his eoi»in"s cynical tone.

A

»i waved his hand.

••l)oa't mentiou it, »ny dusw M5»w don't utKio tt% liut as soon a« 1 are thorcSghly tranued* oblige me the purj\srt of your visit for HK

I A

client due

at four precisely, and I know y.var objection t« t^ing interrupt**! in a'Kc-.^ slt rr "I di'i'itt utoaa to cihw o^ar -1 at all, u'-ly Wur that yvrti «relw Walter*, r«rov-«nag Win gv I tonpet "fcat I bad to upon mj wuht itor in Chancery Lane, and Ikwre 1 uiet Mr. Drrrnt, who remindof a promise 1 made him, which coacorna j-v.. Vjou know him, d^n't you A great .on onee among the'merchant princes, and livmg a jolly life now at his pretty utile pW« at Xor wood." "I luaow, or at knst 1 did know, the Mr. Derwent of whom ytni are swakingf* answered Maicnlm, slowly. "I used to visat at his house some three or fonr ywsrs ago." "I'hen, of oenm, you know gyba Dcr. vent—black-eyod, ma^fnificect 'Walters rapturou^y exclaimed. nAad Ttobt of violets—the golden violet Viol* odoiata. the peerkw# I 'andhe began to hum the air from tV.r Opera," "How happy could! V--.Is ,, .»!*•

v.jfr

"Are you speaking of Mr. Derwent's house-maids askcl Malcolm, sharply. "Stuff, nonsense! Who is rude now?' cried his excitable companion, starting up, and kicking his chair over. "What a fellow you are to speak of two such charming girls in the same breath with a broom and dusterwielder J"

Pardon me, Robert,'' said his cousin, in the cold, measured tones which generally subdued him. "When I mention any ladies, it is with the respect and propriety to which their sex entitles them. If there is one thing that annoys me more than another," he added, his eye kindling, vnd his color rising a little, "it is to hear the names of modest females mouthed by men who talk of them ts they wonld of their favorite horses! Do* you ever image to yourself the contempt and disdain with which Miaa Derwent would look upon her father's guest, if she could guess the stylo in which he talks of her to his associates How con you give way to such a low and degrading habit "I'm not going to be dictated to by you, Mr. Malcolm, as to what I shall say cried Walters, snatching up his hat in a fury, and striding towards the door.

I have done," was tin) tranquil reply, so you need not hurry away. You ll find some cigars on the table."

Walters hesitated a moment, then sat down again, and lit himself a cigar. He smoked for a minute in Bilence then, with returning good humor, went to the pith of his errand without more delay.

I say, old fellow, will you go with me to Derwent's to-morrow night? He gives a fancy ball quite a stylish thing, I ran assure you and I've half promised for you that you'll bo there."

Malcolm stared at him. "In the name of

foodness,

what should I do at a fancy ball—

who never dance, and always calculate upon bein" in bed by midnight "What Should you do Go, to be sure. Violet Lindsly, Mr. Derwent's ward, has heard, somehow, that yon knew her father* and was at Malta when Major Lindsly died. She has found some allusions to your intimacy, in his letters, and wants to know you." "I'll take some more fitting occasion for talking to Miss Lindsly about her dead father, than a fancy ball offers," said Malcolm, stretching out his hand for the cigar box. "And I'll thank you to say as much for me to the young lady, the first time jou see her civilly, of course." •.'*. "Do you think no one has any s6nse of propriety besides yourself retorted Walters "or that Miss Lindsly proposes any thing so ridiculous as to talk of her father in the intervals of a polka or quadrille Mr. Derwent begs that we will extend our stay over a day or two, to afford*

Violet the

opportunity she wishes of conversing with you. Now, will you go "I think not. I will certainly make a point of calling upon Miss Lindsly but I reel no inclination to accept the hospitality of Mr. Derwent, even for a night." "How confoundedly contrary you always are, Malcolm!" cried his cousin, crossly. "Here are half the men I know ready to give their head* for an introduction to thess chartning girls, while you rudely refuse it when offered! I wish you'd go, Charlie! Go, to please ni will you

Mr. Malcolm dilate-l piercing gray eyes. "Why, lvob, o: it earthly consequent can it be to you whether I go or stay away

Walter* took uj» pen 'i which enabled him to arrange hi-i .u.r ,iy the dusty, oldfashioned gluts ha»iin between the windows, and sutilod coin^ilacently at the image it reflected. "What consequence is it to me? More than you suppose, my dear fellow. I am positively meditating matrimony at last!"

Malcolm was aroused into animation now. Dashing his cigar into the fire, he exclaimed, "Not with Sybil Derwent Surely not with her f" "And why not P" his cousin coolly demanded. "Could I find a woman anywhere in society who would do the honors of my house with more dignity and good taste than the beautiful, queenly Sybil? Among my mother's ornaments there is a set of diamonds and rubies. I can fancy how they would flash and glitter in for raven tresses, and on her polished throat." "And is this all you think about Malcolm retorted, scornfully. "Will such mere outside advantages satisfy your wishes Wed her, then, if yon will. But if you seek something more in a wife than a fair, heartless statue, on which to display your wealth, never lead Sybil Darwent to the altar. Never trust your future happiness to her keeping." "Humph!" said Walters "and yet I think I have .hoard a whisper that you were once a worshipper at that very shnne." "Say in plain words that I lOVed her dearly, and I'll not deny it," Malcolm answered steadily. "I am not osliamed of having put f&tth in a woman's purity and devotion." "But you were jilted, it seems, sneered his .xusin. "Yes," sold Maicolffi, fixing hts eyes upon the supercilious face that was hastdy lowered before that penetrating, contemptuous gate. "I was jilted after onr engagement had been sanctioned by the young lady's father, and the day fix«d for our nuptials." "Hither presuming of you. Malcolm, was It not, to expect—oxcuso me if I speak too pluuly—to ex]vct to cany off so fair a pme?" Snca a girl as Sybil Dorweut mighi^peMonably expect to marry well." "I snppoae it was presuming, soeiuj that I have none of I.Mideouic Kob Waiter's advantage*, M.i. 4a oaliuy replied. "However, 1 have survived the disappointment of my too presumptuous hop*.*, and merely alluded to them to warn you that Hks Derwent has displayed a capricious natum, and is scarcely to be trusted."

Walters eireesed his bushy whiskers, and kagfasdL "I am not afraid that the young lady will refuse me, if I houid make up «ay mind 10 ask her hand. But it is pneuuiy *becnuM I So not know which I like best— Sybil or Vkk»t-rthat I want voofcdgo with me to this ball. I have gnsaTlaith in your judgment, Makolm. 14 sooner tafco a wife on yoor r&»d»aK"»*Utwn than ajfy M»t! hwe 1 w^uld!"

This was £ud «er«$a*ly, that Malcolm although in no mood for mirth* oould not resist a wik. "Yea art a rediculous puppy. Bob, and I should be very sorry to see a good, sensible gir. united to yon until

you evince more stability. However, I will strain a point, and go with you to Mr. Derwent's to-morrow night. I have a little curiosity of my own to gratify. Will you coll for me, and drivo mo down P"

Walters hesitated. "1 would with pleasure, but I have a visit to make on the road. A pretty little girl at Camberwell has a fancy to see me in my domino, and I hav'nt the heart to Defuse her wish, poor child."

Tho conceit of this speech made Malcolm curl his lip disdainfully then the name of the place mentioned struck on his ear, and he thoughtfully repeated, "Camberwell, did you say Is it possible that you are alluding to the poor young croaturo your horse knocked down one evening last summer, as we were riding'along tho Dulwich lanes together?" ff

The same, moft titmi. She rejoices in the name of Millicent—Millicunt Vyner. felt in duty bound to call and inquire after her occasionally, and sho has contrived to fall desperately in love with your humble servant."

As Walters said this, he cast another glance at the mirror, and caressed his moustache. But Malcolm's looks were stern enough to make him redden angrily as he met them, altough he strove to appear unconscious of their significance. "You don't mean me to understand that you have the meanness to boast of having destroyed the peace of mind of a modest, industrious girl, whose earnings were her widowed'mother's sole dependence? Great heavens, Robert Walters, lias prosperity perverted you into a thorough scoundrel

Walters started to his feet. "Upon my word, Mr. Malcolm, you presume too much upon my forbearance! Millicent Vyner has nothing to reproach me with, beyond a few attentions which mean nothing! But if it were otherwise, pray what right have you to interfere?" "None, perhaps, according to your lax code of morality," was the sharp retort. "But I sincerely hope that the poor girl has Some male relative strong-armed enough to teach you not to pay attentions to innocent women that mean nothing, or worse!" '^Of that I'll take my risk, most amiable cousin," answered Walters, carelessly. "Adieu, for here comes your client. May your temper be better when we meet again

He turned back at the door to say, I shall write, and tell Derwent that you accept his invitation. Heaven help the poor man, if you are as bearish at Norwood as you are in your den "He is a conceited, shallow fool!" muttered Malcolm, as the young man went whistling down the stairs. "Yet, with all his fau!t3,1should be sorry to see him come to any harm."

And making a hurried apology to the ffentleman -who had jvnl entered the room, •ne ran out, bareheaded is he was, forgetting bis dressing gown and slippers, and overtook Walters beforo he had turned tho corner of the building. "Cob," ho said, as tho other stared at him with surprise and amusement at his dishabille. Half-a-dozen words with you —and remember that it is the warning of a friend. Oive up this Camberwell flirtation You'll get yourself into some mess or other with your follies, I am convinced of it."

Bah!" cried Walters, contemptuously. Are you afraid I shall bo dropped upon by some stern parent or jealous lover? I think I'm big enough and sharp enough to take care of myself, Mr. Charles Malcolm, without any one's warnings,especially yours, which are always bitter pills to swallow."

But I tell you that I have an uneasy feeling npon me—a presentiment tliat you will meet with spme serious trouble, if you are so reckless," Malcolm persisted.

Walters laughed loudly. A touch of what you North Brittons call second sight, I declare! Upon my word, Charlie, I never thought that you who make •ueh pretentions to wisdom, could be so childishly superstitious I"

Laugh at me as much as you please, but heed my counsels," Malcolm gravely replied.

Not I, indeed. But I'll tell you what I will do. If anything terrible befalls mt as you seem to expect, I have a requesV to make."

What is it said his cousin, beginning to think there was something sincere in his flighty cousin.

My request shall be that you avenge m«/" said Walters. "If your presentiment be realised, and I meet my death by foul means, it is you, Charles Malcolm, my nearest kinsman, who shall bring home the deed to my mnrderers! This is my request, and my blood be upon your head, if you neglect to fulfil it."

Moved by some impulse for which he cof\M not account, the young man had thrown off all tho levity of manner hitherto charatcrizing him, and spoke with a solemn impressi reacts which awod and astonished his hearer. Yet, the n«xt moment, as if dR- o-ly ash-vcied of hii vehemence, he turned uWiiy with a careles* nod. and whistled a merry air as he walked briskly towards the Torn pie itm.

Malcolm, regardless of the looks of the few passers by, as well as the gentleman who was patiently awaiting his return, stpod wat«« .Life* the lithe figure of his wealthy coasiu, until it disappeared. Then, with a sigh and a shiver, he retraced his steps to his own chambers.

A terrible request," he murmured, as he w«\nt, hoaven forbid that it should ever bo HIT

tot to Have such a task

0

FORCED

upon

A torribla reqtejst indeed!"'.

M« 1

'^^^PHAPTER IL mi vrmxtxj. It mis the night of the fancy ball. The pretty suite of reception-rooms at Derwent Laige was bright with lights and Sowers. Mr. Derwent pamed through them, sad declared himself satisfied with the arrangements and his weary daughter, on whom thee* had devolved, still wrapped in her noniing-robe, was sitting on tno coach in Viol** Lindsly's dr**»ng-roc«n, watching the progress ef her friend tiolstte.

By a whitt of Mr. T^erwrat'*, every lady present s& that crtvr.ntg*# entertainment was to take th«? «sf some favorite flower and tM I'ui risor was to he generally worn of i«: »]H*r wa« announced, to afford room for a hut? mystification and amusement.

Violet liadslv had :.-v assamhug the nuns and --h 4 the n-

TERRE HAUTE IND., SATURDAY EVENING, MAY 22, 1875. Price Five Cents

blossom from which a doting mother had named her but her guardian, contending that this device would be too transparent, she adopted another, chosen for her by Sybil, and was to appear as the forget-me-not.

Nothing could have booh more appropriate to her blonde and delicate loveliness, and she acknowledged, with blushes and smiles, that her friend's tnste had been far superior to her own.

Sybil kissed her affectionately. You will be tho bello of the fete but do try to overcome that foolish shyness which makes you cling to the first partner that offers, and slight all the rest. A dogree more of zelf-possossion is all that is required to make my dear little Violet charming."

It is very kind of you to say so," her friend replied "but I can never be the belle where you are, dear Sybil for I feel myself utterly extinguished as you come sweeping by. How miserably petite and insignificant I am What would I not give to possess your stately proportions and dignified yet courteons bearing!"

And what would I not give to be you— happy, light-hearted, and free from all positive care or anxiety. Ah, Violet!" And Sybil Derwont sighed so mournfully that her friend pushed aside the hands of her maid, who was fastening the bouquets which confined her lace berthe, and hastened to dismiss her.

Go, Merrit. I will call you when I am ready." Then kneeling down by Sybil, she tried to look into the downcast eyes that avoided her affectionate scrutiny. "You are not well, dear," she softly said or else one of those terrible fits of depression from which you suffer is threatening to attack you. Is it too late to put off this ball I could not enjoy it if I thought you were sad or suffering."

Sybil resolutely shook off her gloom, and even forced a smile, as she replied, Nonsense, love it is your birthday and I reckon upon your producing quite a sensation. Don't look so anxious for I mean to be as gay as tho gayest, and the first to coirgratulate you on your conquests." "Conquests, indeed Violet archly repeated with a toss of her pretty head, "Nay, will not one suffice The rich Mr. Walters, for instance Though if you look so grave at the mention of his name, I shall conclude that you do not intend to relinquish him to me,"

Do not jest upon such a subject, Violet,*' said Sybil, very seriously. The light-hearted girl laughed at the reproof. Why not, dear Would you have me pine myself into a green and yellow melancholy over the loss of an admirer

T*

And yet," Sybil reminded her, "for all you now talk so indifferently of Mr. Walter's attentions, you dancod with him so often at Lady Dornton's ball, that our chaperone grew scandalized."

The blushing Violet turned to the bell to recall her maid. Did I Ah, yes I re member. Bdt it was only because I knew him better than any one else there. I do so detest strangers."

And am I to believe thait you were quite indifferent to his whispers and tender glances?"

The young girl she addressed looked rouud quickly, for the question was put with an earnestness that surprised her and Sybil was leaning forward, awaiting her reply with an unusually ea^er interest in a subject she commonly eschewed. For the first time, the thought crossed Violet that the cold, proud heart of Iter friend had been subdued by the personal ad ran tages Robert Walters possessoi. an-l t'nt she drowled IB her a rival. Ere she -iVl fr.inw any reply, there wss a tap at tho door. Th® guests were beginning to arrive, and Mr. Derwent, impatient at tho non-appearance of his daughter, had sent now to know if ths young ladies were not ready to appear.

Sybil started from her seat. If she evinoed but little affection for her father, yet she was always the most dutiful of daughters, and his slightest wishes were sedulously at* tendod to.

I had forgotten how late it is," she murmured, with a dismayed glance at herr dishabille. How could I be so inconsiderate."

Never mind," cried Violet, snatching up her fan and bouquet, I will go down. I can truthfully say that you will not be long for your toilette is always a rapid one. So make haste, dear, and be sure to look your best-

Mr. Derwent met his ward at ths door the impatient contraction of the brows which marred the still handsome Ae, disappearing when he saw her. Violet knew by the pleased smile that followed the rapid survey of her

appearance,

that he was satis-

fledt and slipping her arm through his, shs pressed closer to his side, with the caressing gesture of a plu*sed child.

Violet Lin-lsly, though nearly of age, was still childish in many of her ways. She had a coaxing, clinging manner, peculiarly at» tractive to those with whom sue employed it and her gaurdi ui must hare often felt ths contrast between his daughter's 00Id obedience, and the affectionate solicitude that always characterised Violet's manner towards him.

Don't put year visor on yet, love," he said, ss he led her into the room. Mr. Malcolm is here, and I will introduos you before we have any fresh arrivals."

What a stern, thoughtful-looking man P* Violet murmured in her guardian's ear, as be led her towards the visitor. "Don't lsavome.daarsk I shall want your supporting presence sadly."

Mr. Derwent laughed, and looked gratified, as he no Idol and whispered two or three re-assuring words but Violet forgot her felr altogether when Charles Maloolm's fact softened, as be gased on tXe girlish figure and delicate featuree 01 his friend's Orphan daughter. He said little, bat his curt speeches were well chosen, and something lihe a oonvefsatkm was beginning between the shy girt and her roeerred visitor, when the room began to fill, and Sybil came in, sclf-possessefl and graifdly beantifal, to play heir part as hostess.

Her dress was ta the simpleststyle. Black he* composed it, relieved only by bright, asnber-oolotfed chrysanthemums, while on her hair glittered one small diamond star. Violet was amongst the first to note her entren**- Touching ths arm of Mr. Miloolm, sho drew his attention to her (Bend.

Look! there is my guardian's daoghter, Mist Derwent Is As not lovely and as good as slie is bfantiM. Let ase have ths pleasure of presenting yon."

But Maksim dr*wb*ekcooDy. -Thanks, IhavaoaiaTius Derwent before*, What

A.

do yon call that swect-ecented shrub, beside you?" Violot both looked and felt disappointed at his indifference, but she was politely an* •woring his question when a young man draw near, in whom Malcolm recognised an oqnaintance. "Vernon Aubroy!" he cried, speaking cordially for the first time, as he shook hands with the new comer. "This is, indeed, an unexpected pleasure. I should as soon have thought of meeting yon at the antipodes, as at a fancy ball!"

Vernon Anbrey (a slight, thoughtfullooking man, with an intellectual brow, and eyes so expressive that one forgot to inquire if the rest of his features were plain or handsome( colored slightly, and glanced at Violet, whom it was evident that ha reoognized in spite of the visor she had donned.

Indeed, Malcolm," he replied," I might say the same with respect to yon. The truth is, that Miss Lindsly and I were playmates in childhood, and I come here sometimes that shs may not wholly forget old times sad old friends."

There was a touch of reproach in his tones which Violet seemed to feel and resent, for sho turned from him and addressed Mr. Malcolm. «I will leave you now." she said," as you will bs no longer alone. Mr. Anbrey is studying for the Church, and is delighted with an opportunity for moralizing on tho follies of his fcllow-creatares. Will you holp him— or gently correct hiip when ho grows too cynical

This was a long and sharp speech for the shy Violet, and Aubrey felt its pettishncss. Yet he ventured to detain her as she was gliding away. One moment. Miss Lindsly my principal, I may say my solo, reason for being here to-night is that I may congratulate you on this anniversary. All happiness be yours—both now and always, dear Violet!"

She bent her head, and thanked him for his good wishes, but with such icy coldness, that the young man was evidently hurt} but, bravely concealing this, he drew a small case bom the pocket of his vest, and put into her hands a chasto broach of Indian workmanship. Will you wear this sometimes, in remembrance of those dear old times when our friendship know no restrictions—no coolness P"

For a moment, Violet's color rose high, aad her lips trembled but, instantly recovering herself, she said, "Thanks, Mr. Aubrey your gift is very pretty. I Tiust try and find a place for it among the uiany

?riends."

presents I have received to-day from mj

Vernon Aubrey was mortified by hor careless tones, and drew back directly. Malcolm, who had ovcrhoard tho dialogue, smiled sarcastically. This is tho result of Sybil Derwent's teachings," he said to himself. Lindsly's pet child, whom I have so

voften

heard him extol as one of the sweetest and simplest of girls, is fast developing into a scheming coquette. Poor Aubrey!''

There was now a little bustle in the fastfilling room. Mr. Walters had arrived his keen eyes had recognized Violet by her bright tresses, and ho was making his way towards her, exchanging jests with one and another as he came along. He appeared to bo in such remarkably high spirits, even for him, that his cousin immediately suspected their reality. Better acquainted with his disposition than any one else, he felt tolerably certain that something had occurred to annoy him, which he was endeavoring to conceal beneath a semblanco of extravagant gaiety. And he was ri^ht.

Mr. Walters had carrioil out his intention of calling at Camberwell &n the pretty innocent girl who ho had taught to love him, and believe in the honied words he delighted in whispering in her too credulous ears.

Millicent Vyner had bashfully concoalod from her mother the many apparently accidental meetings she had had with her handsome admirer, as she went to and from her employment, until Walters drew from her a oonfession that sho loved him.

Nothing doubting that ho would soon propose their union, the happy girl then told her sweet secret to her oiu-ous mother who, better versed in the ways of the wortf, stw much to doubt nml fear where her daughter pi tcod up'-

1

t.uth.

And w.iils Walters wo smiUairlv listening to Millicent's admiring comments on his appearance, the grave-face 1 widow stole upon them, and boldly challenged him to declare his intentions.

Incapable of parrying her home questions, or refuting her reproaches, he had been obliged to beat an ignominious retreat. But never had he felt so fuUy the depth of his own meanness, and the superiority of the haplees Millicent, as when, with one look of mute anguish, she turned from him, and hid her face upon the bosom of her mother.

Shame, however, soon gave place to anger aad before Robert Walters arrived at Derwent Lodge, he had almost succeeded in convincing himself that the Vyners were deceitful, designing people, and that the whole affair had been a planned one to entrap him into an unequal marriage. Mrs. Vyner woll-merited reproofs rankled deeply npon his always irritable temperament and there was a danzerons sparkle in his eye, which Charles Malcolm saw and understood. To every one else, however, he only appeared a little louder, and gayer than usual. He bent low before Miss Lindsly when he reached the place where she was standing, and with a profusion of compliments, clasped upon her arm a magnificent bracelet.

The offering was ncrt in good taste. wss much too showy to please the pefined simplicity of Violet neither did she like the fulsome speeches whioh accompanied the gift, but the eyes of so many were upon her, that the did not lifer to reject it nor when Mr. Walters, with the air of a favored lever, proceeded to draw (he arm he bad adorned through his own, did the embarrassed girl oppose it, though as appealing gku&e at rbil entreated her asmstanse.

8/

The meaning look wss promptly answered. As those wht had been lingering in the apartment began to pre** towards the ball-room, where the quadrille hand had iost commenced a lively strain, 8ybil pat herself directly in Mr. Walters' way ^od,with some trifling question or otter, coatrived to detain him, while Violet gladly slippy away, aad mingled with the crowd.

Walters had not seen the entreating ISM which led Sybil to do this but he itected the nfttnamvrg that deprivod bim of his pretty eompmnfm, and wnh dreadfully annoyed, lie war, in the humor to quarrel with any out *!w thv. nfted hiia and, aware that he had j*l*ycs tv* *.ant suitor to

the yonng ladies, he coarsely attributed Miss Derwent*s conduct to jealousy of his attentions to her friend. Little heod as he had paid to his oousin's strictures upon her, they recurred to his memory now, and a

A 1_

You have taken a great deal of trouble, all for nothing Miss Derwent. I am resolved to dance the first waits with Violet Lindsly, let who will strive to prevent it." "With Violet Lindsly," he added, still more irritably, and no one else

Sybil's bright dark eyes dilated at the brusqueness of his manner, but studied oourteey dictated her reply. I regret to tell you that Miss Lindsly never valses, but I shallle most happy to find you another partner." "And detain me until Miss Lindsly's card is filled up No, thank you, madam. I do not choose to be treated like a halfwitted boy, nor will I submit to be thwarted in this manner!"

I hope," said Sybil, a little resentfully, that I never forget the politeness due to my father's guests. Are wo playing at cross purposes, Mr. Walters? 1 really cannot understand the drift of your remarks."

Indeed !w he answered, insolently. Then A must conclude Miss Derwent either did not know, or else forgot, my relationship to Charies Malcolm when she practised her arts upon me."

For a few moments, 8ybil looked as if she were about to faint. Then she cast a shamestriken glance towards the corner where she had seen Charles Malcolm standing but, to her great relief, he had disappeared, having gone with his host to look at a valuable painting in the study. There was no one within hearing except Vernon Aubrey, who. unable to conquer his mortification at Violet's coldness, had been listlessly turning over some photographs, until Walters' raised tones attracted his attention.

Relieved by Malcolm's absence, Sybil said quietly, though with ill-ooncoaled scorn of her rude assailant, "Whatever errors of iment you and I may have made, Mr. 'ten, wo shall certainly make no more from this moment. You wfll never have cause to fear my malpractices, neither shall I ever again mistake you for a gentleman}!"

Infuriated by this retort, he exclaimed, "Neither shall you come between me and my wishes. Although the time has been that I thought you charming, I am no longer to be snared by a heartless jilt, however beautiful she may be!"

Sybil struggled to retain her composure, but without offect. Already fatigued and depressed, the suddennbss and violence of Walters' attack, and the conviction that ho was repcatingthe words of his cousin, overcame her. With clenched hands, and eyes that flashed fire, she commanded him to leave her, then burnt into a passionate flood of tears.

Vernon Aubrey was by her side in a moment. Miss Derwent, you are ill! Mr. Walters you are forgetting yoursolf when you speak so loudly and rudely to a lady."

What business is it to you, sir asked the excited man, fiercely. Am I to answer for my conduct to everr one who tries to come between Violet Lindsly and IP"

Vernon bit his lip. fifiave Miss Lindsly's namo alone, if you ple&io, or I shall take an old friend's privilego, and insist that you speak of hor with more respect."

Y&u!" retorted Walters, all the West Indian blood inherited from his mother surging into his face. You! a beggarly pretender to Violet's hand—or rather to her fortune--

Before he could say more, Vernon's hand was upon his throat and Violet herself— coming in search of Sybil—saw what was issing, and, with a startled exclamation, iunded towards them."

Recalled to himself by hor appearance, Vernon Aubrey, his lips still white with passion, flung his aggressor from him, and quitted the apartment Foaming with wrath, Walters would have foUowed, but the trembling Violot caught his arm and clnng to it.

Where are you going What has happened Oh, MJ. Walters, you aro frightening me dreadful^ Pray—pray bo calm

As he met her inquiring glances, the angry man began to feel ashamod of his violonce. I have been annoyed—insulted, Miss Lindsly. I think I had better go away."

Greatly alarmed lest he meant to proceed in search of Vernon Aubrey, and renew their quarrel, she hurriedly combated this,

Pray stay, Mr, Walters. We should miss you so much! Do you know, I meant to seep several dances for you, and have been wondering why you did not come to claim them I"

Promise to valse with me, and I will stay," he exclaimed, seizing the chance of triumphing over the now hated Sybil, Violet detested waltzing, bccau-e it mads her giddy but to keep peace, she was ready to promise anything, and he led her exult* ingly to the ball-room.

Neither of them b.vl noticed when 8ybi* Derwent glided away. No cmn saw her again till her father mot her coining from her own dressing-room. He addr*wod her hurriedly. "Sybil, I thought you were Walters' attraction here!"

Indeed, sir!" she said coolly. of which he has just hinted his intentions of proposing for Violet. Does the love him? Ttell me truly. Does she love him?"

I don't know, sir," was the curt reply. Mr. Derwent looked at her intently, as if he thought die hid something from him. But her face was inscrutable, and repressing an inclination to question her more closely, he returned to the baU-soom, which now presented a gay aad brilliant scene.

To Violet, however, it brought no enjoyment, This festal-night, to which she had looked forward with so much pleasurable anticipation, now seemed as if. it would never end.

The lowering looks" of Vernon Aubrey, who kept aloof,yet statched her and Walters continually, mode her uneasy and doubtful of his pacific intentions while Walters' asKdnite were so pointed,that they aimieed every one's attention, and not only confused but dlstreseed her. He had imJbiWl champagne till he was BtowresUaeaamd excitable than evert s»id^ettBlw«JJba*the heart of the pretty he trees waaftibfown, he attributed her increasing reserve aad constrained manner to a wftdsst Qostoicuffldi of his inten* tacns.

While ftis was touting for the conclusion