Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1881-08-20
GaIes and Sketfkfs.
WINDMILL GRANGE.
fcontinued from Yesterday

tContinued from yesterday
A dav or two later business called him
suddenly from the city. He made hasty
call 1t Mrs. Eyue's, but Zoe was still ab-
sent. She would be home that very even
. ing He must be away ut least q week.
There was no avoiding il, unless he was
content to sacrifice greater sum than he
could afford to lose 50 soon after purchas-
ing such a white elephant as Windmill
Grange.
He went away. and two days after re-
ceiyed short note from Toe. It was not
very affectionate, he thought, but she was
so hurried, she told him. She had left
home unexpectedly. at the solicitation OF
friend, and was not preparing for a
a large party she was TO give on the 18th
Of the month Russell must be home in
time TO attend this, or to be visited with
her extreme displeasure.
The morning Of the 18th fond Russell
back to the city. but he was trifle travel
worn. However, he resolved to accept
Zoe's invitation for the evening Glad it
was fiiIl-dress affair, for he felt in false
position, and did not care TO meet Zoe
where he would be obliged to join in any
but general conversation with her. until
he had an opportunity TO explain himself
Somehow, looking over the matter now.
the ardor OF his sudden attachment having
cooled somewhat. he wondered more than
ever II he had been quite wise in playing
the devoted lover to a girl he knew so
little about Perhaps. after all, she might
ct prove 50 companionable for life
long journey as Toe.
With these thoughts running through
his mind. he prepared for the evenings
entertainment, He nerved himself To
meet Zoe quietly. When he entered the
drawing room, Mrs. Eyre-her plump
figure arrayed in black velvet-was the
first To receive him. Next stood Zoe,
marvelously beautiful in a wonderful cos
tune that was a wonderful tang.e Of pink,
wine-color, white lace and pearls. He
fapcied she looked little paler than
usual, but she smiled that rare, sudden
flashing which lighted up her face with
strange fascination-how could he ever
have forgotten that smile? And then
yes, it was quite true-Rachel, in pure.
white silk, her face blushing and dimpling,
put out her hand to receive him also.
He took 1t like one in dream. This
time he LETT no kiss upon IL. He would
not have cared 10 do so were they quite
alone. for he saw very clearly now.
Rachel could not bear comparison with
loo, for when the latter bent her head
moment to say how glad she was that she
had such n pleasant surprise for beth.
Russell could only think of the two as il
the moon had graciously bent down over
tiny gas jet burning in the street and
whispered some congratulatory word.
Russell was among the late guests.
therefore Zoe as once assigned Rachel to
his care.
''She is very tired" Zoe said, please
find some quiet place for her. Mr.. North,
and see that she is not lonely"
Like one in dream Russell offered his
arm, and drew her aside where he could
ask the explanation Of the riddle.
How came you here?'' he said, as
soon as he had obtained a quiet seat for
her.
''Strange. is it not P" she replied. THAT
you should be acquainted with my cousin
Zoe. and / never knew It! II is just like
her to surprise people. I did not dream
she ever heard Of you
but how did you find her out ?"
'.Oh, knew her address, and as soon
rs you promised to find me purchaser
for the Grange. wrote her to come out
and pay me visit. She came ut once.
the day you lett. and when received
your letter saying you would purchase
the place yourself. she helped me to make
all arrangements. and brought me on
with her."
But why did you not write to inform
me of thisP ''
II meant to have written you. but just
rs we were leaving for the city your letter
came. saying you were suddenly called
away. so waited until Won returned"
"And you have told Zoe everything ?"
Everything. There is one thing. how
ever" here she paused and blushed a
trife. ''that l feel ought to tell you.
did think. when saw you at the Grange.
that loved you very much but since
have been in the city | met gentleman
whom"
Whom you prefer to meP" Russell
interrupted quite angrily, yet feeling
greatly relieved.
Yes" she said, hesitatingly. "and."
as she looked up and saw the gentleman
in question approaching. here he is.
Please excuse me MFR. North, but I
promised him this dance"
Certainly" and with bow that was
meant to be very dignified. Russell turned
away and sought secluded nook in the
CONSERVATORY, AS nearly rs 1 can sum
up the state Of the case" he muttered.
II am at present the owner OF an extern
sive country seat, with no marriage or
even engagement in prospect"
The band was playing lei Presco. :"
his favorite waltz. but the music annoyed
him. So did the gliding sound Of the
dancers feet. the light talk and lighter
laughter that tloated out to him. Save
for him the conservatory was deserted.
Il was too early for the weary dancers to
seek it for moments rest. He tore of
his gloves. and. pausing in his pacing to
and fro. dipped his fingers in the basin at
the fountain. Then he heard the rustic of
womsn's train. and turning he found
Zoe at his side.
There was no look Of triumph in her
face; there was no look Of martyrdom.
1t was n triae pale. triac proud, that
was all.
"Well." he said. quite humbly. YOU
have come. Zoe. to tell me am fool"
Indeed l have not Mr.. North" her
voice like her face. with a touch of sad