Putnam patriot., 1912-01-26
Mercy read the name.

Mercy read the name.
 Why. it must be uncle Joe, who was drowned in a shipwreck more than year sgol"
 Mercy smiled feebly. Tt looks as if uncle Joe were not drowned after all." she said without much enthus- iasm. Her face grew grave as she asked, What shall 1 do if your uncle wants to take you away from me-"
 "Oh, I just wouldn't go.H answered her small adorer, twining both arms about Mercy's neck. You are the one I love.'
 Mercy felt the joy of that childish caress, but fear began to shape it. self in her thought. What right had she to refuse him, if this new found uncle should claim his little niece?
 The morning after the letter there came a sha knock at Mercy Schuy- ler's door, and she opened it well know ing who it must be. A tall, fine look ing much-bronzed man stood before her.
 'Is this Miss Mercy Schuyler" And, upon being assured that it was, he con- tinued: q am told that you have by little niece staying with you-can l see herr"
 Following Mercy into the house he spied Grace standing near the window He at once caught her up in his arms.
 You poor baby" he said in brok- en voice. "To think you are ali that ss, f1f4 4A hut I am that there is you,' and he kissed her so lovingly that small Grace could not help giving him a small hug in re- turn.
 Then there followed the whole tale of his having been cast away on an uninhabited island with the half dozen others who were saved from the wreck ed ship, as helpless prisoners, until their rescue only few weeks back.
 All his ventures had proved success ful, and Joseph Granville had been hastening home to gladden. his sisters heart with the news that she should live with him in ease and comfort.
 Later the subject which Mary Schuyler dreaded was broached Grace will have to take her mothers place now. in caring for her lonely uncle. And believe me, Miss Mercy you have my life long gratitude that you have so kindly cared for the baby" His sincerity was evident, but Mercy's face showed only sorrow. while Grace began to cry and cling close to her beloved guardian,
 q don't want to leave Miss Mercy" she sobbed
 Mercy asked: What shall do with out my little girl?"
 At first Joseph Granville looked nonpIussed, then he took heart and said:
 Tt would not be showing much gratitude to rob you of the young ster if you want her; so perhaps it at present, and 1 will see if 1 can't win some of her affection for my self"
 Mercy thanked him. "I should be simply desolate without Grace" she concluded.
 OuCle JUG Setlleu uOW II dS Il uodi u- CT in a comfortable farm house near by, and spent most of his waking hours in the company of Mercy Schuy- Ter and Grace.
 Late one afternoon as they were re- turning from a walk, Grace running on ahead, Joseph Granville said to Mercy: q have thought out perfect plan to make Grace and myself happy. if only you will consent to it."
 Tell me what it is," commanded Mercy in quick alarm, and Joseph an- swered:
 Grace is beginning to like me, but she would never be content away from you; and l have followed Gracie's ex- ample and fallen in love with her guardian. Won't you take us both for life? You are the dearest and best woman on earth,' he ended fer vently.
 For little space there was silence, then, T think your plan is good one," said Mercy at last, giving him a shy smile. And I am willing to try 1t for all our sakes"