Saturday Evening Mail, Volume 9, Number 24, Terre Haute, Vigo County, 14 December 1878 — Page 3

sssts?

THE MAIL

A PAPER FOR THE PEOPLE.

IScribiier.]

THROUGH THE TREES.

A'SSA CATIf A RIX O REKIf.

II It A!

1 known whose lace I'd see ibe hedge, beside the row

III bad known whose voice I'd hear Make music whuv the wind-flower blow*,— 1 had not come: I had not come. If I had known his deep "I lore"

Could make her (ice

BO

fair to see f.

If 11 ad known her toy "And I" Could make him stoop so tenderly,— I had not come I had not come.

But what knew I? The

FUminer

breese

8topmd not to cry "Beware! beware!"v* The vine-wreaths drooping from the trees Caught not my sleeve with soft "Take care!' And so I c&me, and co I came.

The roses that his bands have plucked 4 Are sweet to me, are death to me Between them, as through living flames

I pas*. 1 clutch them, crush them, see! The bloom for her, the thorn for me, The brook leaps up with man a song—

I onee could sing, like them could sing They fail 'lis like a sigh among A world of ioy and blossoming— Why did I c-ame" Why did I come?

The blue sky burns like altar fires— IIow sweet her eyes beneath her hair! The green earth lights its fragrant pyres

The wild birds rise cud flush the air Qod looks and smiles, earth is so fair.

But ah! 'twixt me and yon bright heaven Two bended neads pass darkling by And lout above the bird and brook

Ibeai£alow "Hove," "And I"— And hide my face. Ah God! Why? Why?

MARRYING WELL.

Bx MRS. R. B, EDSON.

CHAPTER VIII.

Emily Barnard did not return to Hadley until the last day in January. She bad endured three very trying weeks for her sister's sake, and it had required an extra dispensation of grace to get through them. From the first day of her advent. Almy bad begun to improve, and at tbe end of three weeks she oould ride out, and tbe color and roundness had come back to ber cheeks, tbougb a little of tbe old shadow still brooded in ber eyes. Dr. Kinmoutb saw bow it was, and took occasion to say to Emily that if she wanted ber sister to live, she must stay, adding, with a quiet meaning in bis tone, 'tbe air at Riverbeck is a little too bracing for her, I perceive.'

Dr. Kinmoutb admired Miss Barnard exceedingly—not ber beauty of feature, or grace of form, or elegance of manner, but her independence and strength of mind, and ber. quiet indifference to coldness and slights. She came to nurse ber sister, and she fully intended to do it—all tbe Jobnstones and Tallmages that ever lived could not have affected or moved her from her purpose a whit. She was sublimely unconscious of the expansion or contraction of Mrs. Johnstone's nostrils, aud was very conveniently blind and deaf when occasion demanded it. But notwithstanding ber apparent indifference, there were times when only tbe consciousness of being 'a professing Chistian' kept down tbe 'natural Adam' that stirred in her heart. That thought always restrained her for she bad a wholesome horror of 'bringing reproach upon tbe Church.'

But she kept her own counsel 'no one in Hadley was any the wiser for Emily's visit,' as Mrs. Barnard said, a little vexed that she would not tell the- neigb bors who came in to hear from Almy little about the style in which tbe Johnstones lived. And she was still more vexed that Emily 'insisted that she should not go to Riverbeck.'

If Emily really 'insisted' anything, ber mother always knew it was no use to struggle against it and so, when she Haid in that quiet, firm way of hers, 'We will have Almy at home this spring, mother, instead of you going to see her it will be much tbe best,' she knew at once that Emily had determined the matter, and though she fretted and ex patiated a good deal, she knew, though Emily said no more, that she oould not go, and she felt more reconciled than she had ever doue before to Emily's marrying, though she rather expected thatshe would oontiuue to 'oversee' her.

All this she thought, and said under the smart of disappointment, for sbe had set her heart on going to Riverbeck, par ticularly since sho had had her new black silk. After all, she had implicit faith in Emily's judgment. Beside?, a little fear had of late entered her heart that Almy was not pleasantly situated. Sbe grew nervous worrying over it— worrying was a favorite employment with Mrs. Barnard and at last, as Allen was going to New York, made bim promise to go up to Riverbeck before he returned home, oharging him, however, not to let Emily know anything about it.

It was almost spring, and the rumors of an approaching civil war took new strength and color every day. Lieuten ant Loverlng made a flying visit to the Jolmstonea, and before be left be managed to see Altny a few moments alone.

He bad gained tbe confidence of Lance Russell, and knew tbo whole little romance, and i*\ his heart of hearts he be lieved Almy would have been far hap

Selieved

ler if she bad kept to her first love. He it more still when he saw the grant change that one year bad made in her. 'They are freezing alt tbe joy and warmth out of hor, poor child he said, wito a feeling of yearning,fUy for tbe sweet, ftesh young life being slowly crushed oat in this social refrigerator. 'Little woman,'he said, with a grave smile, 'Idon't Just like tbe look in those eyes. You remember I upoke of yming Russell when I was here to fore? Nay, don't lo,ik at tne In that startled way, he interposed, as Altny glanced up'at him with paling Hp*. He knew then tbAt, though she perhaps was not on a scious of it, Lance Russell w%s not, nor aver could be, like a stranger to ber, and he felt more than ever how *ad a mis take had been made. But he said cheerfully, laughing a little to reassure her: 'I was going to tell you that, in the event of war, Russell will have the offrr of a regiment, without doubt. I have heard it discussed, and 1 know I am quite safe In making tbo statement. T'-f® isn't** worthier inn at West

I tell you this, my file sister,

because know something about tbe past.' •O Ernest—M r. Lovering! did—did be hlfitnet roe—I mean did Iv much?' she asked eagerly, wltt dtjjymg eyes and (lushed cheeks. •I mn*t !1J you A Ye?1 he 1 ire" verv u« i, i* twdo«» not blame you at all. He has none bat tbe kindest fc**linr» toward you, ftrd' though I say be car l, do not pain 3 ur heart by thinking or 1 a* ati *pp? or despairing, Usisbavd—top Lrave to be disheartened in a world where there Is so much to do vetiif on» i\ .1 I lbs* tbe sweetait, 1 out of ha u. He is too wise to mourn over what might iunre been, and too honorable to

suffer hi* mind to dwell upon it now. I toil you this injustice to him, aud because I think it will rolieveyqu to know it.' 'I thank you very much I wish I ever cftuld do anything for yqu, yeu have helped me so much.* 'J? Why, you foolish little thing, I've done nothing but apeak a few pleasant words. I'll tell you, if we alt have to be soldiers, you shall come and be nurse for us,' he said, laughing.

She shuddered and grew white. He laughed at her, and told her sbe 'must have stronger nerves than that, or she would never do in the world.'

Then, with a few genial, cheerful words, that restored ber spirits, he bade ber good by carrying with him, it seemed to her, all tbe brightness and tbe sunshine.

Ernest Lovering was one of those rare persons who seem so instinct with fresh, bright, joyous life, that their presence radiates a perpetual sunshine.

Mr. Johnstone wrote home from the South, inveighing bitterly against the oourse ot political discussion. He said tbe rice and cotton trade were in peril, and it touched him in a vital spot, as it touched bim in a vital spot, as it did a

S

oo1

many. He bad met with some osses already, and wrote for Kent to withdraw tbe ten thousand dollars be had in one of the city banks aud send it to bim immediately. He believed with that he could retrieve tbe losses be had so far suffered, and gain something over.

Kent consulted his father's lawyer, who gave it as his opinion that, as things looked now, be had better 'let things slide and oome home.'

Mr. Johnstone however, was not given to taking advioe that clashed with his own views, and he wrote again, very peremptorily, for tbe money, which was forwarded without further demur.

CHAPTER IX.

Mrs. Lovering came up to Riverbeck for a short visit, and Mrs. Johnstone, wishing to do her all possible honor, invited a few select families to an-evening party. There were about twenty-live iruests in all and Almy, dressed for the first time since her marriage in ball costume dress, and in her pure, fresh beauty, was no mean rival for the brilliant Miss Tallmage- Even Julia could find no flaw in ber, and both sbe and ber mother were unusually affable, perhaps owing something, however, to the presence of Mrs. Lovering, who made no secret of her fancy for Almy, which did not particularly delight Julia, as Mrs. Lovering bad never been more than formally polite to ber.

Tbe evening was nearly half out when there was aloud ringing at tbe bell, and a little alter loud words aud a slight scuffle in the ball and then the parlor door was Hung violently open, and to Alrny's shame and terror, Allen stood in the door, looking round the room— she knew for her. 'Oh as he saw her, and with unsteady steps made his way toward ber, 'got company, eh Never mind, you're just as glad to see me, ain't you, little sis?'

And, half fainting, Almy felt herself clasped in his arms. But pnly lor an instant. Kent, his face fairly blazing with anger and mortification, took him by the shoulder and led him to the door.

Perhaps tbe indignity, for Allen Barnard was keenly sensitive, or perhaps the white, imploring (ace of bis sistur, had the effect to sober him instantly. 'Let go my arm, sir!' be said, in a firm, quick voice. 'Do you think I will be put out of tbe room like a dog?'

And throwing off his hand, he turned and walked back to Almy with a firm, proud step. 'Almy, dear, can you forgive my thus shaming you before your friends?' he said, coloring. 'I was cold, and drank a glass of brandy, though God knows I did not think or mean harm. I promised our mother that I would see you— it Was not my own choice to come here,' a flash of pride and defiance in look and tone. 'I know you did not mean to shame or vex me, Allen,' she whispered, trying to draw him into a seat.

But he quietly resisted her efforts, though ho held her hands and talked to her a few moments in a iow tone, all tbe time keenly to tbe baugbty scorn with which Kent Johnstone was regarding him. 'Why won't you s't down, Allen or I will excuse myself and go up to my room,' she said, nervously, fearing another outbreak, for sbe saw tbe anger in ber husband's lace, and knew bow little it took to rouse Allen's passions. 'Do you think I would sit In this house?' was tbe quick reply. 'I am going now and raising bis voice a little, 'I most sincerely hope these people will excuse any disturbance I have made,' and bowing quite as haughtily as any of the Jobnstones could have done, be walked quickly out.

Tbe evening's entertainment went on as if there bad been no interruption, and Miss Tallmage sat at tbe piano and made wonderful music with her jeweled fingers, and Kent turned her music, and smiled and chatted as gayly as if there was not a fierce tide or mortified pride aud bitter wrath surging in his heart.

But alas, for poor little Almy! the tears would force themselves to her eyes, though she tiled bravely to crowd tbem back, and the bright color faded from ber face, leaving it almost haggard, despite its youth and beauty. It was such a sad ending to an evening that bad opened so brightly, and she felt more thau over what a bitter mistake It was Kent's marrying Into "such a family," as she once overheard Mrs. Johnstone denominate tbe "Barnards." And, in her innocence and ignorance, sbe did not pause to consider how very probable it was that some of those same 'select' had witressed in their own luxurious homes scenes far more humiliating and aggravated than that bad been.

Mrs Johnstone bad hitherto ooutented herself bv giving Almy to understand her inferiority, and by treating her with a haughty indifference and well bred coolness. She had never, however, spoken otherwise than politely to her son's wife, and, in ber presence, had never openly referred to her family. But there is a limit even to well bred patience. AIM)

SO,

after tbe ootnpany

bad all taken their depai tare, and Almy, wretched and mortified, was upon the

Sobnstone,

oint of going tip to ber room. Mrs. with an added chill in ber voice, requested ber to stop a moment. White and trembling, Almy obeyed.

I consider it due to my friends, as well a* to or r-elf, Mrs. Johnstone,' sbe said, in a to-, far below sero, 'that tbe re be an Immediate stop put to tbe imposition and disgrace your family are disposed to put upon my house. I shall no submit to ft If you wish to hold .i.^unicationatill with vulgar people, must find some other piaoe than this meet tbem. I trust you will govm yourself and tbem accordingly,* •Iwi: ndeavor to.'Almy replied, a HUl- of spirit finning In her face. At »ts other time sbe would have been downright cigry at such a speech, but ev*o berij.i 'k temper failed now to thr iw off terrible Incubus of shame ."•»•! «'ii sorrow which weighed

IOU!,

:r.-1 sbe listened meeklv

a 11» 9K» to Kent's rettei'on of hfs tmrikhetis commands, after u*e/ had

Mrs. Lovering went home tbe next day, taking Drawith ber. Then fol lowed a few weeks of endurance and struggle more bitter than any Almy bad ever experienced. The exterior was always smooth and polished as marble, and as cold. There was no word of which she could ormplaln. and yet she was made to feel continually her hum ble crigin and ignorance, and insignificance. Kent often was virtually as much alone, so far as sny reil companionship was concerned, as though she were in Sahara.

What wonder that a fierce longing grew up In her heart for a Bight of tbe old Hadley Hills, and for a touch of loving lips, whose tenderuess mocked her continually with sweet iemembranees. She grew to hate the elegaqt mansion, and beat her poor wings against the gilded bars till she grew faint and sick. Tbe gleam of marble and the glitter of silver beoame hateful in her sight, and ail the warmth snd brightness and luxury that surrounded and hemmed, her in seemed like an impassable wall. And then, though she tried to put it away, camo the thought of what 'might have been.' Would he ever have subjected her to such cruel torture, and to gratify a paltry pride, torn the sacred ties of nature asunder?

The old thought of growing perfect through "ftuflbrlng lost its poetic charm under Abe pressure of the real burden. The glory of tbe rainbow was lost in the dampand chill of its refracting air.

And so one day there was a sudden uprising. It came about in this way: Mrs. Johnstone and Julia had been out shopping. Upon their return, Almy descended to the parlor, and, quite to ber surprise, found that Kent had returned irom a week's absence, and instead of s(eking her, had seated himself in tbe parlor with Miss Tallmage. Sbe made some exclamation of surprise at sight of bim. 'Behold the devotion of hu9bandsl' Julia exclaimed sneeringly. 'Kent, I can see that Almy is indignant that you did not fly to her arms immediately.' 'I beg your pardon,' Almy replied, the color flaming in her cheeks. 'I wish Kent to act only his own pleasure.' 'I am glad you take so sensible a view of the matter,' Mrs. Johnstone rejjined. 'It is but natural that Kent should sometimes seek congenial society.'

Almy grew quite white about the lips, and her eyes were nearly black.

Ttiere was a double meaning in Mrs. Johnstone's look and tone, and Almy, who chanced to glance up just then, saw that Miss Tall mage's lace was suffused with blushes. It all rushed upon her instantly, tbe story Julia had told her the day of the excursion. In her heart she believed the story true at that moment, and so said, more bitterly titan she would otherwise have done: 'Perhaps it would be better if all could do so.' 'Which, being interpreted, means that a certain young cadet whom Colonel Lovering mention©! to you is-still tenderly remembered,^ said Jjulia, wi.jh a mocking laugh. 'It means anything you cnoose,' replied Almy proudly. 'Of one thing I am quite snre, tbe young cadet would never have sat by and seen me insulted and browbeaten, and not taken up my defence,' and flushed and angry, sbe swept from the room.

It was a very unwise speech, as she ought to have knowu. No man likes to be contrasted with bis wife'a former lover, to his own disadvantage. And so, though Almy looked disadvantage And so, though Almy looked expectantly for him, Kent did not come up to their chamber, but went down the street and was gone till tea time.

Almy felt herself slighted and aggrieved, and maintained a grave silence all the evening. Miss Tallmage brought out the chess board and challenged Kent, and the two were soon apparently oblivious to everything and everybody outside themselves and tbeir game.

This evening was a sample of many others that followed, save that music aud translations sometimes took the place of the chessboard—Miss Tallmage, in ber generous pity for ber cousin, being indefatigable in her efforts to eutertain bim and recompense bins for tbe loss of bis wile's smiles.

Almy was too proud to stoop to any extraneous arts to win back his favor and confidence. Perhaps if sbe had yielded a little, had gone to bim with something of her old girlish timidity and shy tenderness, she might have kept bis affection but she did not.

Into this perilous atmosphere broke tbe reverberating echo of Sumter's signal gun of war.

rERRE HAUTE '3ATURDAY KVE.LNIJSG'MAIL..,

reached tbeir room. Slowly aftd painfully this knowledge burned itself into her brain. Sbo was as really out off Irom ber .family though continents divided tlir«»u«(h ail the long years of her life, In sickness or sadness, the hearts she had leaned upon «o utterly oould be ber re!uge no more. E*en the old consolation of 'housekeeping' failed to comfort ber now. ije bad Maid she must give them up, and she felt that i*e would carry that rule into bis own bouse, if he ever had one.

Dora Johnstone bad just returned from Hudson wbeu tbe call for troops was issued, and two days afterward Lieutenant Lovering came up with tbe^ndertone. information that he bad been cotnmis sioned colonel of a regiment that was to ptart for Washington within a week.

Dora grew very white at first then, as if by magic, all her old apathy and indolence seemed to fall from ber like a aruient, and she stood bravely bv her over, as earnest and brave and determined as he. 'God bless you, Derf, mv darling!' he s&id, with shining eyes. 'You can never know bow much you have strengthened me by your noble conduct. Did I not say that some great need or peril would wake tbe spirit slumbering in you?' be asked exultantly. 'The only dread I bad about going into this conflict was tbe grief and distress ft would bring to you and mother. Your unexpected strength and heroism have added new courage to my heart.' Taen he grew grave, though the flush still burned In nis cheek. 'I differ with most of my associates,' he said quietly, 'in regard to tbe severity and duration of this conflict. I know tbe strength and determination and patriotism on both sides. I know that we are right, but I know also that tbe South thinks it is. It will be no three months' struggle, I am well assured. But short or long, I am resolved to see it oat, ir heaven spares my life!' 'And 1, Ernest, shall have no other thought or interest while this conflict lasts. I have decided to go up to George town, where my cousin Julian Arnold lives. His wife was an intimate school friend of mine, and I know he will go into this war, and I think my situation would be more agreeable there than at home.* *Ah! I thonght something of tbi I knew your father's interests were all Southern, and supposed his sympathies were also. I didn't know about Kent I thought, perhaps, he would be with us.' 'Perhaps he would be If he was not so much annoyed by the financial ruin it is ringing upon us. Beside, he is 1 -ely under mother** influence, and *ueis

very bitter against a war which threatens great pecuniary disaster/ 'But Almy?' 'Oh! she is a warm patriot, and I think it annoys Kent. At least, there is some trouble between them I saw it tbe moment I got home.' 'I muHtseo her, Dora, The greatest objection I have to your leaving home is on Altny's account. I saw, tbe first time I wine here, after Kent's marriage, how things were going. It was that that made me show her so mncb attentiou and take, ber with us to Hudson. Sbe was a sweet, earnest little thing, scarcely more than a child, and my heart went out to ber with a yearning pity. Baside,' be added, laughing for the first time, 'ahe flattered my vanity by showing— her heart is so iunocent and transparent —adecided liking for me,' 'She thinks you are the most wonderful and incomparable of mortals!' Dora answered, with a look and a smile that revealed very plainly that it was not a very great way from her own opinion.

There was a rap on the door, and Almy's voice asked softly: 'mi .1 •Dora, may I come in?'

For auswer, Dora opened the dior, and taking tbe sweet face between ber palms, kissed it tenderly. 'I was in such a hurry to congratulate you,' she said,. as she took tbe gentleinanJa proffered hand. 'I would give half the years of my life to be able to fill a man's place to-day.'

Ernest Lovering felt a new thrill of exultation at the privilege granted him by partial fate, as he looked down lu the clear gray eyes flashing and darkening under tbe same iuspintion that stirred bis own soul, but which could only sit and wait. 'Then you bid me God speed, Almy?' •Yes. oh! a hundred times, yes!' tbe fire in ber eyes lighting her face. 'With two strong allies, I ought to be unconquerable,' Lovering said, smiling.

Almy turned suddenly and looked in Dora's face. 'Why, Dora, how strange you look sbe cried. 'She has just awakened,' be said, meaningly. 'O, Dora! I am so glad! Thank heaven I am not to be quite alone in tbe household.' 'I am afraid you will be, dear Almy.' And tben sbe told her of her proposed visit to Georgetown. 'You see I could not wait here. I must be somewhere near him where,I could go to him in an hour, if he needed me,' she said with grave eagerness. •I cannot blame you,' sbe replied, a little look of regret shadowing her face. 'But it is to be such a little time—only three months. I will try to bear it.' 'I must tell you, Almy, that our friend Russell had, as I prophesied, tbe offerof a Colonel's commission, but declined it', preferring the captaincy of a company irom his native town.' 'From Hadley!—are you quite sure it was from Hadley she asked, ber eyes dark with excitement. 'Yes, I am quite sure. He left when I did with his commission in bis pocket, and doubtless ere now the Hadley boys are rallying to his standard, for he has enthusiasm enough to raise the dead.' 'Thank heaven!' she said fervently, aud, turning away, went and stood by the window, looking out upon the whitelv dotted rivor aud the sunshiny shore, "yet with eyes-that saw not,

CHAPTER X.

5

V..„

Very few letters bad passed between Hadley and Riverbeck since Emily's return. But one morning, early in May, Tom Evans brought one from the office bearing the Hadley postmark. It was in a coarse yellow* envelope—the Johnstones used only heavy tinted paper, with the family initial stamped on the seal—closed with a red wafer, with 'In baste' written upon one corner. 'IU1 give it to ber myself if I can get a chance,' said, Tom, divining that it was from her 'people,' and guessing pretty correctly the estimation in which said •people' were held by the Jobnstones. 'There's no need of tbeir knowing everything,' he said, as he loitered in the ball till Almy came past, aud then slippped tbe letter in her hand.

She gave one quick glance at it, and her face brightened. 'Oh! tbank you, Tom!' she exclaiaied with a grateful smile, and ran quickly to ber room.

Tom felt paid a hundred fold for his trouble. He had never forgotten her pleasant smile and'Tbank you'on tbe day of ber arrival. •She's a'real lady at heart, anyway,' soliloqnlaed Tom, as he polished up tbe family carriage till it shone like a mirror 'though I can't say as I particularly like her family, as far as I've seen. That Miss Emily was awful pious, besides being homely as sin. I should hate to have her nurse me, tbougb sbe did cure her up wonderful. I wouldn't mind being sick a considerable, though, to hear Miss Almy's pleasant voice and see ber sweet smile,' he added, in a burst of honest admlratior.

Meantime Almy had opened and read her letter, and with glittering eyes whispered alow 'Tbank God!' She sat a moment utterly motionless, her breath coming short and quick over her dry, parted lips. Then sbe smoothed out the sneet and read it over slowly in a low

•Dear Almy,' it began, 'I want you to come home for a few days. I am ttolpg to be married to John Cranston. When be asked me last summer, I thought I could not leAvo mother alone so soon after yon had gone from us. I partly promised to marry him this spring, but mother has been so poor since I came home from Riverbeck that I bad put him off till after the spring work was through. 'But, Almy, something has happened that has changed all my plans, John has enlisted for the war. I didn't wait for him to ask me this time, but I said "John, if you had rather leave a wife than a sweetheart to pray for you at home. 1 will make no further objections." I am so glad I said so, for he said it was jnst what lie wanted to ask me! A3 if any one but him ever carod for met Dear John! O Almy! I am so glad I have something to give—that I can make some sacrifice for my country!

Allen has enlisted too tbey are both going in Captain Russell's company. There was such a rush to go with him, that we were afraid at one time there would be no room for them in his company. But several were thrown out as anflt for duty, and tbey barelv got in. 'Father says be offers up nls son as freely as Abraham offered Isaac. 1 have made no preparation for my wedding there is no titan, we all are so busy getting "our boys" ready, aa we call our company. •Lance—I forgot, Captain Russell says Lieutenant Lovering is going out as Colonel. I suppose your husband will

Some

with him. I wish you oould oom© and stay It he does. But, at any rate, come home before they go awav, which will be in about ten days, and if possible, before am married, which God willing, will be the tenth of this B:'nth. We shall be pleased to have your husband accompany you, and hope ha will do so. Come, if you cannot stay tiiore than two days. Father and mother want to see you so much! Beside, lather

says if it should bo His will tbat Allen should never come back, bd thinks it would be a comfort to you that you came and bade bitu good-by. We shall all look for you eagerly.

Your affectionate sister,

v:

EMILY.'

Almy folded the letter, and sat buried in a half glad, half sorrowful reverie. The gay notes of an operatic air floated up from the music room, but it tell ou unheeding ears. Her thoughts were miles and miies away, and instead of jsoft carpets and luxurious furniture, she saw canvas tents and tbe bare earth for beds, and tbe awful splendorof opposing armies, tbe fearful pomp and oircumstance of war.

And always one form, lithe and graceful—one face, framed in clustering rings of jetty hair, with strong, tender eyes, ana fir.in lips, looked out—proud, brave, triujipbaut—from every changing picture. 'If I were his wife, I should have something to be proud ot,' sbe thought, half alo-Vd, the thought sending a swift tide of crimson to her forehead—1'something better than fine clothing and polite speech and a well filled purse.'

And then half unconsciously she fell to wondering if he bad changed much— as much as she—and how he would look in a captain's uniform, and if it would make bim proud—It was something to be proud of—and if sbe should see him, and it he knew or cared tbat she was coming. Then sbe grew ashamed of suoh idle, if not wrong thoughts, and felt bow paltry tbey were at suoh an hour, when brave hearts everywhere were forgetting love and life in their devotion to right.

Sbe wept too at thought of Allen, fear ing other perils than bullets for one so ea&ily tempted, yet feeling better about it because be was going with Lancelot Russell. Tben there arose in ber heart a little feeling of mortification, not that ber husband was not going, but tbat be entertained such different sentiments.

Again tbe piash of soft music broke nto ber reverie, and Miss Tall mage's sweet, flexile voice palpitated through a low, pleasant melody. That he was there sbe was well assured, even before his voice fell so easily and naturally into the chorus. 'Soft music and syren smiles—beauty, and art and German metaphysics, dress, style, etiquette—these are 'the things tbat exalt and ennoble!' she cried scorn fully, pacing the floor in her excitement.

But by and by her passion cooled itself, and when her husband came up soon after, tbe old loye bad so far returned tbat she was ready to make excuse for bim. It was annoying to have one's property swept away, and it was not so much to be wondered at that be felt it sorely and bitterly. Beside, there was his father as virtually separated Irom any communication with bis family as if he were already dead, as he indeed might be, for augbt tbey knew. And so ber heart softened, and ber indignation changed to a vague sort of sympathy. She resolved to bumble ber pride, and ignoring the coldness of tbe past few weeks, ontreac bim to go with her to Hadley. She had never asked to go home in tbe long year and a half sbe had been at Riverbeck, and certainly he ought not to complain now, though she rememoered be bad told ber that 'she must not expect to visit ber family olten or t-xpeci him to.' •I have just received a letter from Em ily she is to be married the tenth of this mouth to John Cranston—perhaps you remember him, Kent,' sbe said, a little hesitatingly. 'Perhaps,' he answered, indifferently. •She wishes me to oome home.' 'Indeed I suspected as much. Is it to be a "state occasion?"' he interrupted with a faintly perceptible sneer. 'It is to bo a national occasion,' she said, with rising color. 'John is going into the army. A company has been formed in Hadley, and he and Allen bave both enlisted. They want you to come, with me—you know you have never been home with me since we were married, a year and a half.' 'I did notintend to go for thrice that— there is nothing particularly attralive to me in Hadley that I should take tbe trouble of a journey there.' •But you will go for nay sake, Kent?' she asked, pleadingly. 'They are my relatives, and as dear to me as yours are to you. They will think it strange if you do not come with me, paiticularly now, when John and Allen are going into the army.' 'What they think is a matter of perfect indifference to me, as well as the circumstance of your brother and this Cranston's going into tbe army,' was tbe ungracious reply. 'I am to understand, then, that you refuse to go with me?' sbe asked, her lips trembling a little, but an angry light darkening ber eyes. •Precisely. I have no taste for rustic weddings, and tbe parade and glorification of a handful ot raw recruits, who fancy themselves heroes, and are looked on as such by their admiring friends, but who will probably throw down their muskets and run at the first sight of a battle field.' •They will not be traitor9, thank heaven if tbey are cowards!' sbe said meaningly, ber face flaming. 'Thame you! Perhaps your West Point friend would suit you better than I iD this emergency. You should find out someway of communicating with him and soliciting bis sympathy—there is nothing like congeniality of se&timent.' •Perhaps not you ought to be judge.' •What do you mean?' his cheek red_^ dening suddenly. 'Simply what I said. It illy becomes you, who spend half your leisure in the lndulgenoe of "congeniality of sentiment,'1 to speak like that to me. Julia had the kindness to tell tne, almost a year ago, the history of your engagement to your cousiu.' 'She told a falsehood then! I was never engaged to Frances,' be answered hotly. 'I presume you believed it.' 'I did. I think I bave bad ample cause for believing even more than that.' •Undoubtedly! Heaven defend me from a jealous woman! But let me tell vou one thing: I shall not give up my friends to suit any woman's jealous fancies. I consider myself perfectly able to direct my own actions.'

There was a little silence, and then Almv said quietly, as quietly as if her hesrt was not almost bursting with mingled grief and anger and passionate pain: 'I suppose I can go to Hadley?' 'Ifyou bave sufficient faith in the: honor of your husband to dare trust him out of your sight, yes.' •Very well, I will go.'

Tb us ended the first real quarrel between them* There had been coldness, but never bitter, recriminating speech before.

Almy at once set about the preparations lor ber journay. Her heart almost stood still with apprehension as sbe thought of tbe strsngeness of tbe way, and her utter ignorance and inexperience in travel. But she did not once think of giving up tbe thought of going —she mutt go, she must see Alien before be went away, perhaps neyer to come back. Dear Allen! perhaps be thought sbe was vexed for ngrywith him cause of that Inopportune visit of t~~,

she must Me bim and tell him she was not—that she loved him Just as dearly as when she had lived in ttfe dear old home*at Hadley, seeming-now such a long, long while ago, as she looked back.

Soon she was ready with one of those same trunks, packed and waiting in the lofty ball, which had stood, nineteen months before, in tbe great square north parlor at Hadley, and labelled now, as it bad been tbeu, 'Mrs. Kent Johnstone.' But she no longer blushed shyly at sight of it. or felt little delicious thrills tingling through her veins at tbe thought that it meant ber!

The parting with tbe family was very polite aud quietly friendly, and Kent went with her to tbe station, Tom Evans driving tbem over. While ber busband stepped out to procure her ticket, Tom Evaus slipped in at tbe door. •I wanted to bid you goodby before you went maybe I sbant ever see you again,' he said, hurriedly. •Tbank you, Tom but I'm only going to stay three weeks.' •But/am going away.' l'oii, Torn? I am so sorry!'.* 'But I'm going to the war, Miss Almy' —he always called her Miss Almy—'are you sorry nowf' he asked, with a little thrill of pride in bis tone. •O Tom! are you—are you really and truly?' her eyes brightening. 'Yes, I'm going, sure! I'm going in Colonel Lovering's regiment, too. I enlisted last night, though fJtey don't know. But I wanted to tell you, because—well, because you've always been so kind snd pleasant to me. They say a man fights better if he has some one 8t home to fight for—somebody who will be glad or bis success, and sorry if be should fail. Now, I've nobody to care for me—' 'Hush, Tom! I sbsll always care to heaf about you,' sbe interrupted eagerly, her soft eyes swimming in tears. 'You can be my soldier—I have no one to send.' •God bless you, ma'am. I can fight as bravely as any of tbem now! You shall never be ashamed of your soldier. Goodby.'

He was turning away she put her hand—he bad not expected tbat—saying earnestly: 'God keep you, Tom, till we meet again.'

Ah, these- meetings! how unlike tbey often are to what we fancy they will be at parting!

If Almy Johnstone had dreamed of when and how she should next meet her husband, she would uot have parted with him as coolly as she did. Pride, neglect, indifference, all would bave been overcome by the love still existing in her heart. But she did not know, so they touched hands calmly and parted —sbe a little sad and regretful, be cold and indifferent to the mute appeal in her eyes.

She was to stop over night in New York, and take tbe first morning train for New Haven. At first she felt a nervous and tifnid but by and by the thought that she was nearing home drove everything else from her mind. It seemed as if she could not wait till another day lor the sight of the Hadley hills and the green banks of the Connecticut.

She wa3 so hungry for the love that awaited her! More than ot:c« her eyes filled with happy tears, as she said softly tohersoli: 'To-morrow I shall see thorn all! 1 shall feel their dear kisses on «y thirsty lips! I shall lay my head 00 mother's bosom!'

Her husband had given her the address of tbe hotel where ho always stoppel.and though the crowd and the noise confused her a little, she found no difficulty in reaching it sUely. Of course it was a first cla*s house if Kent Johnstone patronized it but though the fare was princely and luxuriously served, and tbe beds were dainty and inviting, she could neither eat nor sleep, she was in such a (uuiult of emotion. The morning found her pale, but with such a look of happy expectancy tbat more than one turned in passing for another glance at tbe beautiful, eager face.

She had procured her ticket, and was hurrying across the platform toward the New Haven cars, when a familiar voice struck her ear. lnvoluntrrily she glanced up, and there, within throe feet of ber, his face pale with sudden surprise, stood Lance Russell,

For an instant a strange, deathly feeling came over Almy. Perhaps he saw the fear and the emotion in ber face. He stepped quietly to her side and drew her hand through bis arm. 'You are going to Hadley, Almy?' be asked, as tbey pushed tbeir way through the crowd. •Yes,' sbe answered, like one in a dream. 'Ah, Almy! Going home, eh? They are all looking for you.' It was the voice of Charles Gordon, who bad time only to grasp her band for an instant. •I came up from Hsdley yesterday am going to Riverbeck.'

That night Mr. Gordon called on the Jobnstones. 'By the way, Kent' he said, 'I Just met your wife at the depot in New York. Captain Lance Russell was with her, so you need not feel anxious about ber safe arrival.' [TO BE OONTINUBD.]

Ctired Of Drinking.

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ol Charge.

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