was little sympathy between her and the other members of the family.
Mrs. Checkynshaw decided that the house should be sold, and that she
and the two daughters should board with a relative of her own. Maggie
did not like this arrangement, though she was prepared to accept it if
no better one could be suggested. She stated her objection in the
gentlest terms; but her step-mother was cold, and even harsh, and
Maggie realized that the future was to be more unhappy than the past.
In this emergency she consulted her old friend, Dr. Fisher, who was
familiar with all the circumstances of the family.

"I cannot live with Mrs. Checkynshaw and Elinora, now that my father is
no longer with us," said she, sadly. "I do not like them, and they do
not like me."

"It is not necessary that you should live with them," replied the
doctor.

"Couldn't I live with Andre again?" asked she, eagerly.

"Certainly you can. Leave this to me. I will see your father's
executors, and tell them your wishes."

"Thank you, doctor."

"The block of stores yields a large income, besides your share of your
father's property; but, Maggie, you are under age, and you must have a
guardian to take charge of your property. Your own wishes in this
matter will be consulted."

"Andre!" exclaimed she, with enthusiasm.

The doctor smiled, and shook his head.

"Why not?" demanded she, her face looking sad again.

"Andre is a very good man, but he does not know much about business."

"There is nothing to do at present but to collect the rents on the
block of stores. I could not name any one but Andre for my guardian."

"Perhaps the court will not approve of him if you do," added the
doctor, with a smile.

"I'm sure Andre is honest and true, and will be faithful to the end. He
knows enough about business to take care of the property."

Maggie argued like a woman, and the doctor promised to do what he could
to meet her wishes. Mr. Checkynshaw's executors were opposed to the
plan; but, at the earnest solicitation of Maggie and the doctor, they
at last consented to recommend it, and Andre was appointed guardian of
the rich man's daughter. If ever a man was amazed and bewildered, Andre
was, when he found himself the keeper of such a vast property.

Maggie had a plan of her own. Andre was to be a barber no longer. A
nice brick house in Harrison Avenue was hired, and furnished in good
style, and the strange family were once more united. Leo sold out the
mous