in late in the afternoon, expecting to find us all at home, as
it was a holiday. I bade him good by in case I did not see him again, as
he got into the carriage to ride back to the city.

"Oh, I shall see you to-morrow," he said in a brisk tone which had not
been habitual with him of late.

That evening my mother-in-law was uncommonly gracious, a little
absent-minded, and more pleasant in spirit than I had ever known her.
She seemed to be filled with an inward satisfaction that I could not
make out at all. Bessie and I both remarked it, but could not surmise
any cause for the apparent change that had come over the spirit of her
dream.

Next morning, on reaching town, I found a note asking me to step over
to Mr. Desmond's office when I could find time. I went at my leisure,
wondering what was up. As I entered, he seemed remarkably cordial and
happy.

"I find that Blunt," he said in a business-like way, "would like to have
you take hold at once, if possible. Their affairs are in some confusion
and need an experienced hand to straighten them out. It will be
necessary for you to give a bond, which I have here all prepared, with
satisfactory sureties, and you need only give us your signature, which I
will have properly witnessed on the spot."

"Oh, is that it?" I thought. Strange I didn't think of its having
something to do with my new position. I knew I could get away from my
old place at a week's notice, as I had already made known my intention
to leave, and there were several applicants for the position. The bond
was executed without hesitation.

"You will not lose your vacation," Mr. Desmond said, "though your salary
will begin at once. As soon as you can get matters in order, which may
take a month or more, you are to be allowed a few weeks' absence to
recuperate and get fully prepared for your new responsibilities."

Thanking him for his kindness, I was about to go, when he said, "Sit
down, Mr. Travers. I have something else to say to you."

"What's coming now?" I wondered, as I took my seat again. Mr. Desmond
seemed a little at a loss how to begin his new communication, and came
nearer appearing embarrassed than I should have thought possible for
him.

"The fact is," he said at last, "I have changed my mind about going
abroad."

I have no doubt I looked very much surprised and puzzled, and smiling at
the expression of my face, he went on,--

"Your mother-in-law, Mrs. Pinkerton, is a very worthy woman; i