Herald and tribune. [volume] (Jonesborough, Tenn.) 1869-current, 1873-12-18

and settling down at home. He thought
of Grace, and wondered if she had changed
much IN appearance since he left her
under Mrs. Harris charge. lf .r...
"She is now nearly eighteen" thought
he, "and if the promise Of her childhood
is fulfilled, she must be gentle and lovely
girl She will bring sunshine to my
home, and make it happier for me-"
Then came thoughts Of another,---a
lady whom he had often met lately at
the house Of his partner. She was
visitor there, friend of Mrs. Raymond
modest, amiable and refined. She had
won his heart, and he determined that
evening to go there and ask her to marry
him, With wife whom ho adcred, and
a daughter to cherish and protect, he
would willingly give up business, and
himself with the quiet and comfort
of country life.
"You have made me very happy,
dearest" said he to Alice Percival that
evening, after receiving a favorable an
swer to his suit. I'VE will 60 out to the
old place tomorrow to see what alterations
it needs. 1t may be that Grace has ro.
turned from school, and L shall have
the pleasure of introducing you"
"Gracc?' asked Miss Percival inquir.
ingly.
&" Is it your sister,"
"My sister!' said he, smiling. NO,
| was never so fortunate as to have one.
This is my ward, ofwhom speak"
81 did not know you had a ward"
said she, rather coldly. ...
Haven't | mentioned it?" asked he,
surprised. Il thought l had done 50.
My friend and college chum, Wilbur
Reade, died several years ago, commit
ting to my care his daughter. Grace. She
must be nearly eighteen now, and has
been at school most Of the time since her
fathers death. shall bo glad to have
her make your acquaintance, knowing that
she cannot fail to love you."
is she to remain with YOU may
ask?' said Miss Percival, withdrawing
her hand from his grasp.
"Certainly,' said Charles, surprised,
"Do you not wish it? | hope you might
be good friends" he added in q depre.
eating tone.
"Did you not educate her with view
to her supporting herself? l should
think she might be competent to teach,
hayeiug been to school so long"
81 never thought of her doing such a
thing. | have funds left by her father
for Fer needs, and if not, while | have
home she shall never want one."
"Then must retract what | said few
moments ago."
Mr.. Williams looked panied
rs this your fnal decision ?" ho asked.
ut is. cannot share your heart
with another"
Alice" said her companion with emo
ton, 'you we'll know how ardently | love
you, but can never retract my word, ol
give up the charge placed in my hands by
valued friend, and ono who is ho Longer
living. Have you, then, no pity for an
orphan. friendless an6 aione?"
81 canuot discuss tho matter longer
The alternative is before you, If yo,
prefer to retain Grace Reade in your
family, l cannot share your home"
"Be it SO then. | shall not urge yol
against your inclinations. Farewell!"
Mr., Williams left the house with q sor
rowfui heart. His dream was over ant
now ho would 60 home. Surel.
Grace, for whom - ~ milo ), grea
a sacrifice, would be glad to see him, AM
in her love he must rest content.
As he descended the steps, the parlo
door opened, and Mrs Raymond eutere,
| the room.
"Did Mr.. Williams propose this even
ing Alicc?"
"Yes."
And what was your auswer?'
THAT be must choose between hi
ward and me-"
didn't you feel conscience>stricken !?
Il can't say but l did, littlc," sal
her companion, smiling. "However, q
time passes, he will feel differently abor
the matter. Ais we'll that ends vel
you known"
"Yes. Isuppose SO. hope this wi
end as we have planned. Must you E'
turn home to morrow? l hoped 20
would stay day longer, at least
"Yes, l must go to morrow, and in th
early train, too. am particular in m
desire to be at home as soon as possible
now.
NO doubt; you have strong induc'
ment. But let me hear from You as SOC
convenient after your return"
81 will write in day or two."
Charles Williams ratbered up all DO