Saint Mary's beacon. [volume] (Leonard Town, Md.) 1867-1983, 1875-02-25

any DO0yJ knew JnaI C0leman Dufko
had retired from business years before,
worth half . million of money, and had
made fortunate investments since
That he was decked in fashions latest
styles, yore diamond studs and ring,
carried o switch cane, drove q fine team
and occupied expensive rooms ct the
hotel, al could zee for themselves.
Very soon after he came, smother
fact vas patent TO al observers-thaf
be was very attentive to Miss Lucia
rockingham, the belle Of many sea-
sons.
Mrs. rockingham hoped in her heart
that Lucia would not be q fool, and
would remember how far Mr.. Coleman
Burke's pocket-fook out-weighed his
nephews; also, that an old mans d-rl-
ing was far more apt to have every
whim gratiied than young mans
slave. Having delivered this material
lecture, the widow dilated upon the
expenses Of the Saratoga trip, and was
rather marked in Ter emphasis upon
speedy subjugation of the elderly ador-
er.
And Miss Lucia shrugged her fair
sloping shoulders, threw over them a
cloud Of black lace and descended.to the
porch, where Mr.. Burke waited to es-
cort her for a drive. His manner of
wooing was certainly more business
ike than sentimental. Where Frank
had grown eloquent over the beau
ty of the liquid dark eyes, his un-
Gle dilated upon the suitability of dia-
monds for brunette beauty. Where
Frank tenderly quoted poetry descrip-
tive of the slender grace Of the willowy
figure, his uncle thought velvet was the
most becoming wear for slight figures.
As they drove, the fat old gentleman ask
ed her opinion Of his horses, also obtain
edher description of the most suitable
carriage for lady's exclusive use Like
wise be expressed contempt foran In
dia shawl folded upon seat near the
lake. as one far below the quality he would
purchase to deck lady's shoulders.
Sometimes. indeed, as Lucia inform
ed her affectionate parents, he was a
little spoony, pressing her hand, and
rolling up his eyes over the rims Of his
spectacles, like fat old porpoise.'
But rs rule, he was simply devoted
in a constant attention. A bouquet of
rare flowers in the morning, followed BY
a call; drive in the afternoon; walk in
the evening, or an offer of escort-duty
at bali, tecane tie usual daily rou-
tire. But the elderly wccer vas an en-
persistent one and even Lucia,
vain of her conquest, was bewildered
10y the rapidity of the courting. Only
a fortnight ago. she had but bowling
acquaintance with Mr.. Burke, and
now he had positively offered parure
of expensive canoes for her accep-
tance.
A letter from Frank Coming to-
day mused Mr.. Coleman Burke, read
ing an epistle handed in ut his door
Surprised to find me away from home.
Hopes have seen his dear Lucia in a
kinder light than the one had pre-
viously had. Hem-yes-well.'
And so Mr.. Burke mused and NUT
tered as he donned his most exquisite
suit, his most dazzling necktie, aud fas-
tened bouquet iu his button hole.
Bless my soul, uncle Coleman, what
swell you are!
And then Frank was in the room,
and the two exchanged cordial greet
ings.
And Lucia Frank questioned, is
she well: Z
She was perfectly well last evening
when took her for drive!
'You:'
Certainly. You do not suppose I
have failed in attention to my future
niece. do youf'
You ike her better than you did,
continued Frank, pleadingly.
See here, Frank the old man said,
suddenly wheeling round from the glass
to face his nephew. 4 have bargain
10 make with You. If, within an hour,
l prove Lucia false, mercenary, and a
traitor to her promise to you, will you
give her up? Stop If she is true,
loving and faithful withdraw my harsh
words. and will give her the love al
ways hoped to give your wife
But how can you find out:' said the
young man, astonished at his uncle's
energetic proposal.
1t is yru who are to find out. / am
already satisfied, You are to 60 the
center window of the small drawing
room. on the East Porch, and listen to
a conversation / am to have, by appoint
mcnt. with Miss rockingham
sEayesdroppinr'
Never mind that grand air of con-
tempt. am to have my way for Just
one hour, and you can take yours af-
terwards for lifetime. Will you go 2
If you say so.'
Go. then
Just little later Miss rockingham,
all smiles and white muslin, sailed into
the east drawing-room TO greet her ell
derly aGmirer. With an air Of deepest
devotion he raised her hand to his lips
and greeted her with fowery compli.
ment.
i presume, he said, in low, tender
tone, .you are 1T 10 loss to guess the
reason why l have ventured to summon
you here. You must have understood
the meaning of my attentions. Need
/ tell Won how dear You have become
to me 7; Need l speak of the love you
have inspired 2
You are so kind she murmured.
4 am contemplating q speedy return
to the city, and / wish to arrange for
the Wedding, if I can obtain any ex-
preston Of your wishes. Do you OBJ
Jet to an early day: 2
Amy day willbs supremely bless.' she