The Democratic advocate. [volume] (Westminster, Md.) 1865-1972, 1875-01-16

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surrounded by the guests, who offered
their congratulations.
How lovely she is" said one of the
ladies'.
"Shc looks like queen, said another
Such were the compliments bestowed on
Eva; and she deserved them, for she had
grown to be beautiful young lady.
Walter entered the room and saluted
the guests in his usual polite manner, and
then walked over to where Eva was sitting.
He was now tall, handsome man Of
about twenty-eight years of age.
Eva, have you waltz for me"
Certainly" answered the young girl,
smiling and blushing.
As he led her to the ballroom Walter
continued
Eva, have something to say to you,
but cannot say it now amid all these peo-
pie. Give me little of your time after
the waltz
Very well, Walter" was the conscious
reply.
After The waltz Walter asked Eva TO
accompany him for walk in the garden.
"Ycs-it is so close in here"
1t was beautiful moonlight night, and
the moon shone brightly on Eva and Wal
ter while they walked along together.
Presently long silence was broken by
Walter, who said
elbow cool and refreshing the air is to-
night"
Yes. Ii reminds me Of the beautiful
summer nights spent in Virginia while
attending school there. | used to sit at
my open window and gaze for hours on
the moon and stars, and think of home"
And--and of me, dear Eva ?"
The young girl did not answer.
!" | have something to say to you, Eva.
Do you care to listen ?" continued Walter,
earnestly.
Certainly, Walter"
"Well, dearest girl, love you. Win
you promise to be mine 2"
Eva blushed, but did not speak.
"0b, say that you will be mine, Eva,
and you will make me so happy Do you
love me r.
Yes" said Eva in low voice, as she
came closer to him.
"oh, my darling, you have indeed
made Inc happy = said Walter, as he i'm
pressed kiss upon her sweet lips.
They walked back toward the house a
much happier couple than when they left
it. They entered the parlors and remained
until the entertainment closed. The
guests in general expressed themselves
sitisfcd that the affair was the grandcst Of
the season, but they little dreamed that
during its progress two hearts had merged
into one.
Mrs. Crawford had never really loved
Eva, perhaps because Mr. Crawford did;
therefore the news of Walters engagement
to her was received with anything but
pleasure on her part, aud Eva was made
to feel kecnly how unwelcome she would
be rs daughter-in-law.. However, she
bore Mrs. Crawford's hard words very
patiently, hoping to finally win her good
opinion.
One evening Walter and his father re-
turned from business later than usual, and
each looked pale and troubled. The evpn-
ing meal was partakcn Of in utter silence,
and before its completion Walter arose
from the table and walked toward the
library. But he was followed closely by
Eva, who was determined to learn from
him the cause Of his trouble.
Why do you act so strangely, Walter ?
Has anything happened to you and father2'
eyes, my darling, we are 10 trouble"
said Walter, turning toward Eva aud tax
ing her hands in his.
What is it, Walter? Pray tell me"
ave are ruined, Eva. Our house
failed to-day"
Failed?
"Yes, darling. We are now poor
Is there no hope ?"
/" Nome said Walter, sadly.
@Keep stout heart, Walter, and all
win be well," said Eva, hopefully, "If
it becomes necessary, will go out towork
and help you"
"Ncver, Eva, while | have these two
arms, said Walter as he drew her toward
him - our brave spirit win help me to
work and TO regain what | have lost.
Would that mother could be as brave, but,
alas | feel she win not
The next day the only conversation on
the street was the failure Of the large and
responsible firm Of Crawford & Son. Some
said they could resume business in few
days Others differed in opinion aud said
they would never resume us their loss was
too great.
Mr.. Crawford and his son were seated
in their private Office, settling up the ba-
siucss Of the iirm
II is no use, Walter; We are ruined be-
yond all hope, said the old man sadly.
Have patience, father; something may
turn up before the week is passed. said