ifferent, so utterly natural. He did not seem in the
least troubled by the sight of herself.

David and Marcia did not go up to speak to the bride at once. David
stepped back into the deep window seat to talk with Mr. Brentwood, and
seemed to be in no hurry to follow the procession who were filing past the
calm bride to congratulate her. Marcia remained quietly talking to Rose
Brentwood.

At last David turned toward his wife with a smile as though he had known
she was there all the time, and had felt her sympathy. Her heart leaped up
with new strength at that look, and her husband's firm touch as he drew
her hand within his arm to lead her over to the bride gave her courage.
She felt that she could face the battle, and with a bright smile that lit
up her whole lovely face she marched bravely to the front to do or to die.

"I had about given up expecting any congratulations from you," said Hannah
sharply as they came near. It was quite evident she had been watching for
them.

"I wish you much joy, Mrs. Skinner," said David mechanically, scarcely
feeling that she would have it for he knew her unhappy, dissatisfied
nature.

"Yes," said Marcia, "I wish you may be happy,--as happy as I am!"

It was an impetuous, childish thing to say, and Marcia scarcely realized
what words she meant to speak until they were out, and then she blushed
rosy red. Was she happy? Why was she happy? Yes, even in the present
trying circumstances she suddenly felt a great deep happiness bubbling up
in her heart. Was it David's look and his strong arm under her hand?

Hannah darted a look at her. She was stung by the words. But did the
girl-bride before her mean to flaunt her own triumphs in her face? Did she
fully understand? Or was she trying to act a part and make them believe
she was happy? Hannah was baffled once more as she had been before with
Marcia.

Kate turned upon Marcia for one piercing instant again, that look of
understanding, mocking merriment, which cut through the soul of her
sister.

But did Marcia imagine it, or was it true that at her words to Hannah,
David's arm had pressed hers closer as they stood there in the crowd? The
thought thrilled through her and gave her greater strength.

Hannah turned toward Kate.

"David," she said, as she had always called him, and it is possible that
she enjoyed the triumph of this touch of intimacy before her guest, "you
knew my friend Mrs. Leavenworth!"

David bowed gravely, but d