The Newark journal., 1905-08-04

to the summons and when Rose was serving tea, Tom casually remarked to Pearl:
 You have come to the city in my absence. Miss Craig
 Yes" she replied. You have been away two years, haven't you? and my guardian. Mrs, Weston. only moved here a year ago"
 "I believe Rose said that your par ents are travelling"
 Rose tried to divert his attention. but his eyes were fixed on Pearl, who appeared quite at ease.
 They are she replied "and now we are here, all friends. together am going to tell you the story of my life, which is known to but very few. Rose among the number. My parents are dwarfs and exhibit in circus in England. l was sent to this country when l was quite child to be edu- cated. l was placed in charge of Mrs. Weston, who saw in me a resemblance to a child she had lost. l visit my parents frequently, and they are de- voted entirely to my happiness.
 There was a profound silence after this astonishing revelation. which came so suddenly that Rose with all her tact knew not what to sGy S..e dared not glance at Tom, Who nas not an adept at eoneealing his feeliuas, and she feared his intense surprise would hurt Pearl. He was the first to break the silence.
 My dear Miss Craig" he said with a kindly smile. it does indeed seem odd that one so tall should come of dwarfed race, but l can match you in family peculiarities. 1 have brother who is his own uncle"
 Tom. what are you talking about!' exclaimed Rose in relieved tones.
 Tt is true" he persisted. He mar ried his step aunt. and of course his aunts husband would be his uncle!'
 Pearl laughed heartily, and Rose felt that she did indeed love him for talk ing the astounding information so easily. Lionel recovered himself and began questioning Pearl about her life and her parents as if it were most ordinary statement she had made. Stephen alone was tongue-tied and i'll at ease
 He looks" thought Rose, like a man who has had a most terrible shock
 When he finally spoke. it was to propose departure. Lionel acquiesced and asked Pearl if he might escort her home, but she explained that she was staying with Rose Stephen merely bowed his adieu.
 "IH never again" reflected Rose judge a man by appearances. They both acted justine reverse of what I expected"
 In the evening Tom came again. but this time alone.
 T thought" said Rose. that Lionel would come up with you2"
 Lionel has just left the city He had an urgent summons away, and sent goodbye to you both
 "Et tu. Brute" thought Rose, glanc- ing at Pearl who seemed in no ways disturbed by the information
 Miss Pearl" said Tom, thinking to break an awkward moment, Rose says you play. Can't you give us some music?"
 Certainly; if you and Rose will go in the next room to listen, l will play you some dreamy. slow music
 This was quite satisfactory to Rose and Tom. and they went into the li- brary. As Pearl sat at the piano, her fingers wandering harmoniously over the keys. the maid announced caller, but Pearl was 50 absorbed in the mu- dc she did not hear the announce nent.
 Pearl" said manly voice beside her
 She gave a little, nervous start and looked up from the piano to see Ste phen standing at her side.
 Pearl, [ am glad to find you alone I have loved you for a long time, as you must know. I didn't know how much until I heard your little story to-day. It seemed to me. must take you then and there inso my arms. could not speak without telling you 1 loved you, so 1 came now to ask you if there IS any hope Pearl
 "I wonder" said Rose to Tom, ''why Pearl has stopped playing. We mus n neglect her
 Sh crossed the long room and part