e mother; what transparent relief to the overtaxed
pater! Mollie and Trix would begin at once to discuss bridesmaids'
dresses, and there would be a trousseau to buy, and all the bustle and
excitement of a first marriage in a family. And afterwards? A big,
handsomely appointed house, pretty clothes, lots of money, the power to
help those whom she loved...

It sounded good--very good indeed! Much more attractive than those
nursery governess and companion schemes which she dreaded, despite all
her resolutions. It would be delightful to be her own mistress, and do
just as she liked...

And then a thought occurred. What of Eleanor? Ruth recalled the intent
gaze which had mystified her so much during the afternoon, and felt
convinced that Miss Maclure had guessed her brother's secret. What was
her feeling in the matter? Was she jealous of a rival in her brother's
affections, or loyally anxious for his happiness, regardless of how her
own future might be affected? A spasm of curiosity found voice in a
sudden question--

"But there is Eleanor. If you married, what would become of her?"

"There would be no difficulty about that. When we took up house
together we made a solemn agreement that if either wished to marry in
the future the other should not hinder in any possible way. Eleanor has
her own income, and many interests in life to keep her happy and
occupied. She would live near us, I hope, but you should be entire
mistress of your home, Ruth."

He evidently thought she had looked upon his sister's presence in the
house as a hindrance to her happiness, but, in truth, Ruth felt a chilly
sinking of heart at his reply. The thought of the big house was not
half so attractive, shorn of the figure of the sympathetic friend. The
library with no Eleanor sitting writing at her desk; the drawing-room
with no Eleanor in the deep-cushioned chair; the dining-room with no
Eleanor at the head of the table--how blank it all seemed! How
dreadfully dull to be alone all day, with only the doctor to break the
monotony! Only the doctor! The blood rushed in a flood to Ruth's
cheeks as she realised the significance of that one word. She turned
impetuously towards her companion, and gripped his arm with nervous
pressure.

"Don't tempt me!" she cried earnestly--"don't tempt me! There are so
many things that I should like, and I keep thinking of them, when I
should think only of you.--I'd love to be rich, and have a nice h