the
brilliant concourse: one of these, a youth of striking mien and unusual
elegance, is now seeking a presentation from her father. With a
good-humored smile, he bows assent, and together they seek our heroine.

"Come, Alice dear, make your prettiest bow to my young friend, Percy
Clifford." Then, in a mock whisper, he added, "Guard well your heart,"
and left her, smiling maliciously at the painful blushes which his
remark had summoned to her cheeks.

However, the low, easy tones of Clifford's voice soon reassured her, and
a half hour glided away so pleasantly that her father's warning was
forgotten, or, if remembered, but too late. I don't mean to say that
Alice really gave her heart away before the asking; but that night when
she and Kate were repeating the sayings and doings of their late guests,
Percy Clifford's name was oftener on her lip, and when, with arms
entwined, they slept the sleep of innocence, Perry Clifford's musical
voice and captivating smile alone hovered round her pillow.

CHAPTER IV.

AGAIN and again they met; already had the finely-modeled features of
Alice Clayton gained an indescribable charm from the warm feelings of
her pure, ardent heart, which sprang up irresistibly to the surface. No
wonder that Percy Clifford yielded to the idolatrous affection which
grew and strengthened in his bosom for the fair girl. No wonder that his
passion knew no restraint when he pressed his lips on her innocent brow,
and drew in his clasp Alice, his betrothed.

* * * * *

"My sweet Alice!--my 'little Alice;' for so I love to call you. The dear
name recalls the little brown-haired beauty who sat upon the bank
weaving into garlands the bright flowers, none half so lovely as
herself, while from the depths of her gentle heart gushed out a song as
witching and melodious as the carolings of all the feathered tribe.
Then, a boy, did I first gaze enraptured on your infantile beauty; then
did my heart unclose to the lovely vision which it has since treasured
through years and absence, joy and sorrow. My father always granted my
request to prosecute my studies at his country seat near A., and,
unknown, unnoticed, I followed you through girlhood, and experienced my
first pang when you left me for the distant seminary.

"None can tell the overwhelming sorrow, the keen agony which succeeded
your absence; my only solace was to seek the streamlet and mingle my
boyish tears with its