Waterbury evening Democrat., 1904-08-02

liked the feeling that prompted the pay- ment of the interest which he resolved to keep, as he knew itwould in a meas ure assure her that she had made atone- ment. He returned the ring as directed, with a little note informing her that the restoration of the money was the least of his pleasures. The first was in find- ing that his first impressionsswere cor rect-that she was woman good and true, his next in being able to return her ring, which she must have.missed.
 He regretted very much her wishes, which he of course would respect, that he make no effort to learn her identity, but he hoped chance would some day effect meeting He received a brief acknowledg of the receipt of the ring. The months went by, and Stephen Gregory treasured her face in his mem ory He knew the name she gave was fictitious and he also fe1t assured that Springfield was only temporary abid- ing place. 1.
 At Christmas, however, hewas invited to house party in Minneapolis He was the last of the guests to arrive, and when he was presented to Miss Whit
 
 had been dreaming was raised, a thrill of pleasure ran through his veins. She turned deadly pale, but her manner was composed and controlled. The hostess moved on and left them alone, as they stood little apart from the others.
 May I ask you," she said, in low, strained voice, ito say nothing until I can have few moments conversation with you in private"
 Certainly" he replied "Iwilismake an early opportunity to do so"
 An hour later they were alone in the music room. She was still very pale. and there was hunted look in her eyes which made his heart yearn toward her.
 ''Of course" she said wearilE, tit is your duty to give our hostess sufficient reason why should not be here, but may ask you to spare me that dis closure? Twill have telegramssummo me from here immediately"
 My dear Miss Whitney" hessaid, and the sympathy and deference in his voice gave her heart it's first hope, "I wouldn't be such cad as thatl Even if you give me no explanation-and do not ask one-of that little affair which resulted only in a purely business transaction, shall be entirely convinced; that you are an honorable woman, and beg you to remain here and permit me to know you.
 Her eyes filled with tears, which she quickly forced back, and in moment spoke:
 1T will tell you the whole truth. Thave 8 modest income which add to by writ ing for magazines. The date of payment for such labor Is uncertain and not to counted upon. My little sister had se- were illness early last summer. When she was convalescent the doctors em- phatically ordered her to the seaside. My ready money had been exhausted by the expenses attending her illness. had already anticipated my allowance, and I knew not where to borrow, although was sure that in two months time would be 4n position to repay. That day saw you in the car had been downtown to pawn my ring and watch. I had never done such thing before. and hung about the pawnshops until I lost my nerve. and resolved to wait and make an early morning trip, when fewer people were about. I saw your roll of bills and 1t made me sick to think how much money there was in the world and yet life loved might be lost for want of a paltry sum. I was desper- ate. The temptation came to me when you sat beside me. It was so easily done! I purposely left the ring in your pocket as security. don't know how got of the car and walked down the street, was so frightened. Hound your card, and by inquiry learned you were not poor, so felt easier. And--you know the rest.''
 It almost kills me when recall what I did and what I am, but--under the same circumstances should do it again. The end justified the means. I was fortunate in that you are the man you are"
 Miss Whitney" he said, earnestly. extending his hand, '*it was, as said, a purely business transaction, and one most honorably met by you never shall regret the act am heartily glad of the occurrence that led to my Knowing you'