he way, and, bending down, he whispered--

"My little sister, put this uninjured arm around my neck, there--now I
shall carry you as easily as if you were in a cradle."

He held her firmly, and as he bore her up the steps the white face lay on
his bosom, and the golden hair floated against his cheek. If she had looked
at him then, she would have seen more than he intended that anyone should
know: for, young and free from vanity though she was, it was impossible to
mistake the expression of the eyes riveted upon her. Mrs. Young wrote
immediately to Mr. Huntingdon, and explained the circumstances which had
made his daughter her guest for some weeks at least, assuring him that he
need indulge no apprehension whatever on her account, as she would nurse
her as tenderly as a mother could. Stupefied by the opiate, Irene took
little notice of what passed, except when roused by the pain consequent
upon dressing the ankle. Louisa went to school as usual, but her mother
rarely left their guest; and after Mr. Young's return he treated her with
all the affectionate consideration of a parent. Several days after the
occurrence of the accident Irene turned toward the minister, who stood
talking to his mother.

"Your constant kindness emboldens me to ask a favour of you, which I think
you will scarcely deny me. I am very anxious to see the friend whom I so
unexpectedly met at the Academy of Design. Here is a card containing her
address; will you spare me the time to bring her here to-day? I shall be
very much obliged to you."

"Very well. I will go after her as soon as I have fulfilled a previous
engagement. What is her name?"

"Electra Grey. Did you notice her face?"

"Yes; but why do you ask?"

"Because I think she resembles your mother."

"She resembles far more an old portrait hanging in my room. I remarked it
as soon as I saw her."

He seemed lost in thought, and immediately after left the room. An hour
later, Irene's listening ear detected the opening and closing of the hall
door.

"There is Electra on the steps; I hear her voice. Will you please open the
door?"

Mrs. Young laid down her work and rose to comply, but Harvey ushered the
stranger in and then retired.

The lady of the house looked at the new-comer, and a startled expression
came instantly into her countenance. She made a step forward and paused
irresolute.

"Mrs. Young, allow me to introduce my friend, Miss Electra Grey." Electra
bowed, and Mrs. Young