Year: 1873

The conversation was general for some
time; but "Mr. English" soon arranged mat
ters so that he and we're separated from the
rest of the party. He then said


II have heard very often of an old box-tree
on the Elmwood lawn, which is cut in the
shape of bird. Would it be asking too
great favor of you to show it to me now?
"Certainly not" said I, thinking this would
be good opportunity for me to ascertain his
plans.


"You must be very much attached to this
place, Miss Leslie" he remarked, as we pass
ed down the lawn.


eyes, I feel as if Elmwood were an old
friend, and am sure should grieve over its
loss, as I should do that of person 1 loved"
81 feel both pleasure and pain in hearing
you say this; pleasure that you appreciate
my property so highly, and pain that am to
be the cause OF your losing it. 1t is useless
for me to attempt disguise with you any
longer. You know I am your step-father,
and you have sense enough to keep this knowl-
edge to yourself-not for my sake, but for the
sake of others. I shall not insist upon your
leaving Elmwood Immediately; but you must
recognize the fact that you will have to do so
before very long"


NV heart was too full for me to answer
him; but he did not seem to care for reply,
for he continued speaking


ttT - Ill I'll NJ
more timber off the upper end Of the farm.
If it is not put stop to soon, shall have to
mention the subject to him myself; and as
that might lead to some unpleasant revelations,
you had better manageit."


The insolence of this request was more than
I could stand.


"You are mistaken in the persons you are
dealing with, sir" said I, Indignantly. "We
do not recognize your right to our home, and
shall not submit quietly to having it taken
from US. You may find more obstacles in
your way than you think, when the time
comes for you to take possession, as you
seem so confident of doing. Do you intend
remaining in this neighborhood for the pres
ent?'


eyes, shall remain until obtain posses
sion of this property. I understand my debts
have all been paid, so I have nothing to fear
in that quarter. May ask what you intend
doingY'


II have not yet decided. I hope you will
not annoy US by your presence at Elmwood." )"
"Why, I am coming to see you very often !!
1t is but natural father should like 10 be
with his children"


I turned from him in disgust, and walked
to the house. He remained silent all the way !;
but could see he was looking around, as if
taking an inventory of the property.


On joining the party in the parlor, we found
only Mr.. Howard and Mary. She was look
ing distressed, while he seemed to be rather
triumphant, I thought. Before leaving, he
turned to me and said


"Miss Matte, heard from our friend Owen
Morris week or two since. He was quite
we'll when he wrote"


II believe, then, I have the most recent in.
telllgence. recelVeu leIIer HolH Hiui lasI
Friday"


"Ah! indeed! Did he speak of returning
to this country?"


eyes he will probably be here in the au-
tumn."


I do not know what prompted me to say
this; but felt was speaking the truth. l
knew that he would come home, for I intend
ed asking him to do so. My recent inter
view with Mr.. English convinced me beyond
a doubt that would soon need friend, and
where could I find one better or truer than
Owen Morris? My remark had an effect on
both of our visitors They exchanged glances
as spoke, and I saw then there was some un'
derstanding between them. They very soon
took leave, much to my relief.


Nellie came into my room later in the day
with an open letter in her hand


"Oh Matte, I have to 60 home. Harry
is very ill, and I must 60 at once. Here is a
letter from Mrs. Marsh, the house-keeper, and
she begs me to come Immediately. What
shall 1 do?"


eve will both go to him, Nellie. l car
leave aunt Patsy in Mary's care. Shall We
leave this afternoon ?"


eyes, we have bright, moonlight nights
and We will not mind being out late. l an
so glad you are going with me-"


y