Virginia free press. (Charlestown, Va. [W. Va.]) 1832-1916, 1871-06-03
81 CHARLESTOWN JEFFERSON COUNTY, w VA SATURDAY, JU
Presdming on former acquaintance, he re-
solved TO call at his house.

0
was shown into the family sitting-roon,, where
Mr.. and Mrs. Lennox sat, with their eldest
children.
Rose was among them, and the blush that
mounted to her cheek, the bright smile she
gave him; as their Dyes met, spoke a warmer
welcome than even her fathers extended hand
aud cordial greeting.
But having testified by looks rather than
words, her pleasure at seeing him, Rose left
the entertainment of their guest to her parents.
And disappointed as st. John was, he could
bnt admire her utter Inconsistencies that bis
visit was intended for her, and absence of all
desire TO attract his notice.
AS he convcrsed with her father, bis eyes
wandered to the place where she sat sewing
noting every expression Of the pure, young
face, even to the quivers Of goldeh-btowti LASH
es that shaded the rose-tinted cheek, especially
the sweet womanly charm of her low; quiet
tones and gentle movement.
The richest party tobe never looked half so
lovely as that simple home dress of brown me-
rino, worn with no ornament, save dainty
ruffle at the *tist and throat.
You will be at Mrs. Dayton's tomorrow
evening? he contrived to say as lie took his
leave.
No, am not going.
A shade of disappointment crossed st. Johns
face, almost Immediately followed by gleam
of satisfaction as happy thought struck him.
The next evening Rose was sitting in the
parlor, quite by herself.
Her mother was up stairs with the younger
children, and her father preparing to go out.
Mr.. Lennos looked in Upon her moment,
as he passed through the hall.
Do you regret your decision in regard to the
party; my daughter
No, indeed, papa, returned Rose, smiling
brightly into that care worn face
Mr.. Lennox laid his hand lovingls on her
head.
Ny blessing if pass successfully through
this crisis it will be owing to the strength that
you have given me.
Are things looking any brighter, papa?
A great deal brighter, my child. You know
told you that could fetriete my losses, II ]
had time. Mr.. Hart, my principal creditor,
has offered to give me six months. 1t was
owing to something that Mr.. st. John said to
him. He is noble hearted young man
God bless lin
The heart Of Rose echoed this wish, as her
fathet hurried away. For the first time re-
grets mingled with her thoughts, as they re-
verted to the gay gathering, from which she
had been debarred
suppose he will be there, she murmured.
A gentleman to see Miss Rose, said Katy,
opening the door.
Rose lifting her eyes and the object Of her
thoughts stood before her.
Not sorry to see me, hope said st. John,
taking her untesisting hand in his.
Sorry Rose turned her eyes around that he
might. no. see how softly radiant they were
Oh, no. She faltered II was only surprised
thought you would be sure TO be at Mr.
Daytons this evening.
Shall tell you why l did not 60, ? inquired
st. John, as he took seat by her side.
The cheeks of Rose grew as red beneath
that earnest gaze rs the flower from which she
was named.
was just thinking about yoii, and wishing
that | could thank you for the kindly Office
you performed for my dear father.
am going to ask him to perform for me a
far more kindly one to give to my keeping
the brightest and sweetest Rose that ever
bloomed. When he asks me what your wish
is, oh, Rose-if1 could say my Rose-what
shall tell him9
What Rose told him could be easily inferred
by one who looked in upon the two few min
utes later, and Rose *as as modest as lovely.
I don't see how you came to choose me,
Paul, when surrounded by so many stylish
and beautiful women p
Who would so gladly do their best to dissl-
pate my fine fortune, returned st. John laugh
ing.
He then told Rose Of the little scene he had
witnessed in the store Of Lowering & Brothers,
and he had resolved, then and there, to do bis
best to win her, who when tempted to eYpend
iture beyond her means had the strength Of
mind to say, CASyoT AFFORD IT.
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