he contrary, she told her that
she was neither expected nor wanted there; that parties were never
intended for "such old things;" and that now she was there, she hoped
she would stay in her own room, unless she should happen to be wanted
to wait on the table!

This speech, of course, exasperated Berintha, but she made no reply,
although there was on her face a look of quiet determination, which
Lucy mistook for tacit acquiescence in her proposal.

Five--six--seven--eight--struck the little brass clock, and no one had
come except old Dr. Benton, who, being a widower and an intimate
friend of the family, was invited, as Lucy said, for the purpose of
beauing grandma! Lizzie, in crimson double-gown, and soft, warm shawl,
was reclining on the sofa in the parlor, the old doctor muttering
about carelessness, heated rooms, late hours, etc. Grandma, in rich
black silk and plain Quaker cap, was hovering near her favorite child,
asking continually if she were too hot, or too cold or too tired,
while Lucy, in white muslin dress and flowing curls, flitted hither
and thither, fretting at the servants, or ordering grandma, and
occasionally tapping her sister's pale cheek, to see if she could not
coax some color into it.

"You'll live to see it whiter still," said the doctor, who was
indignant at finding his patient down-stairs.

And where all this time was Berintha? The doctor asked this question,
and Lucy asked this question, while Lizzie replied, that "she was in
her room."

"And I hope to goodness she'll stay there," said Lucy.

Dr. Benton's gray eyes fastened upon the amiable young lady, who, by
way of explanation, proceeded to relate her maneuvers for keeping "the
old maid" from the party.

We believe we have omitted to say that Lucy had some well-founded
hopes of being one day, together with her sister, heiress of Dr.
Benton's property, which was considerable. He was a widower, and had
no relatives. He was also very intimate with Mr. Dayton's family,
always evincing a great partiality for Lucy and Lizzie, and had more
than once hinted at the probable disposal of his wealth. Of course
Lucy, in his presence, was all amiability, and though he was usually
very far-sighted, he but partially understood her real character.
Something, however, in her remarks concerning Berintha displeased him.
Lucy saw it, but before she had time for any thought on the subject
the door-bell rang, and a dozen or more of guests entered.

The pa