faithfully to perform the sad office. It almost made her happy.
She died soon after.

"When the funeral obsequies were over I sought my late brother's lawyer,
intending to place the business in his hands before I sought you.
However, he laughed at the whole story as a piece of absurdity; told me
that the pretty governess was doubtless married to some honest fellow in
her own sphere in life, and advised me to destroy the unimportant slip
of paper, pocket the fifty thousand, and say nothing. I left in disgust,
resolving to keep the whole affair, for the future, in my own hands. I
immediately hurried to Mrs. Linden with the marvelous story, and she
gave me your address and a God speed. That is all that I have to tell,
except that I am here to congratulate you upon the change in your
fortune."

"Don't jest," she said, looking at him with tear-filled eyes. "It was
only over these graves, two of which hide those who were dear to me,
that I have gained this great good."

"Then I will stop jesting," he said, gravely, "and utter only the truth.
Clemence, I had another reason for seeking you. You have learned my
secret, and know, now, my deep love for you. Tell me if I may hope for
its return."

For answer, she extended her hand in silence, and across the grave of
the child who had worshipped her, he clasped and raised it reverently to
his lips.

Its pallid whiteness struck him mournfully. He kissed it again and
again. "A brave right hand to wield in one's own defense, and battle
with a cold and selfish world. It is like nothing in the world but a
snowflake, as light and as pure."

"Now, you are laughing at me," she said, the deep carnation blooms in
her cheeks making her beautiful.

He gave her a glance of adoration. "Here," he said, having disengaged
something from his watch-chain, "is a ring that belonged to an only and
beloved sister who died in early youth. I have a fancy it would fit your
finger, and I always intended it for my wife, as the most highly valued
gift I could bestow upon her. How would you fancy it for an engagement
ring?" slipping it upon her finger, where it hung loosely.

"I should prize it more than a Queen's diadem," said Clemence,
eloquently.

"You shall have the diamonds, by-and-by," giving her another glance that
riveted her own, and then he kissed her, as the seal of their
betrothal.

CHAPTER XVI.

"I was just thinking of you, Betsey," said Mrs. Wynn, as the figure of
the spins