Weekly expositor. (Brockway Centre, Mich.) 1882-1894, 1883-08-30


ty and seriousness' Of the marriage en-
gagement-the son saw it, and perhaps
appreciated the humor of the thing-but
he continued gravely, nevertheless
"a great change has also taken place
in that girl both in mind and body--it is
not natural-now i am not going blind
folded into this thing, and want that I'M
derstood from the word go-that girl is the
next thing TO an idiot-what is the cause
OF this sudden transformation, and what
does it mean?'
Mr.. Dillon had not interrupted his son
in his remarks, but had observed u
thoughtful silence; when he had conclud-
ed, he said quietly:
"You shall be gratified, Walter. You
ask why the sudden change in the mental
and physical appearance Of Katc---that is
easily explained-the girls food has been
treated to that end by Mrs. Markham,
with my conscnt''
The library Of the Dillon mansion was
very spacious, and divided at the further
end by sliding door, which formed
cosy apartment for the use of any one in
clined for reading, writing, OF seclusion-
that door was partly drawn and any one
within, though concealed themselves might
both see and hear all that TRANSFERRED in
the adjoining part of the library. We
give this explanation of the plan of the
room, to show that here the author has
splendid chance TO put Kate in hiding, and
thus spring upon the reader tragical
dsnOuenent in the complete exposure of
our dramatic persona. But such is not his
intention-kate may or may not be there,
and il she is, she seems capable OF pre-
serving n very discreet silence.
u 4 y n
Walter Dillon was astounded at the rev.
citation of his father. This accounted for
the extraordinary conquest he had made
for n moment he felt exceedingly foolish
for the fellow had really thought that
he Sudre conversation, his general gentle
ness of demeanor. and his undoubtcd good
looks had been the real cause of his Won
derful triumph over the proud heart Of
the royalty accomplished Kate Dillon! In
stead, his wonderful conquest was due
solely to the science of pharmacopGia and
the trcacherouS skill Of wicked house,
keeper.
The young man was astonished and dis
gusted.
Old Dillon knew exactly the direction
of his sons thoughts,and from the twitch-
ing of his features, it was pretty evident
that he keenly enjoyed his sons discom-
fiture
Walter had not word to say; it had
been all worked in his interest. He knew
that his cousin detested him and never of
her own will would marry him; the more
he turned it over in his mind, the more he
was convinced that it was well and
shrewdly done, and so, finally, he informed
his father
IL was satisfied that your good sense
would accept the situation, Walter; for
was thoroughly assured in my own mind
that you would never gain that girls con-
sent by any legitimate means. You are
very much indebted to Mrs. Markham.
Shall ring for herr"
Walter signifed his assent. Il in few
moments the housekeeper appeared and
ner in which she had treated Kate. but
acknowledged that she had never antici-
pated such complete success.
She further informed him that if she
should cease her method Of treatment for
two or three days, Kate would resume the
full strength of her faculties. and in less
than week be as hearty and strong, and
as royalty digniied as ever.
In the meantime she must still keep
her in charge until after the marriage,
which ought 10 take place as soon as pos
slble.. She was doing her part the trous-
sean was almost ready, and she had no
doubt that Miss Dillon would readily as
sent to anything she suggested.
The conversation concluded 10y setting
Wednesday of the following week for the
marriage of Walter Dillon and his cousin
Kate.