u
with a description of the exhibition. It passed off in that school
pretty much as it does in others. The Delanys, however, had not
returned in time to be present, nay, the very last day of William's
stay had dawned, yet they had not arrived. William had written to his
mother that he would be home on a stated day, and not even for the
delight of meeting the mistress of his heart, the period of whose
return was now uncertain, would he disappoint her. William was engaged
in packing his trunk, when Dr. Keene, again the harbinger of good
tidings, entered his room.

"My dear Dulan," said he, "I have come to tell you that the Delanys
have arrived. You will have an opportunity of spending your last
evening with Alice."

William shuffled his things into his trunk, pressed down the lid,
locked it, and, hastily bidding his friend good-evening, took his hat
and hurried from the house. Being arrived at Colonel Delany's, he was
shown into the drawing-room, and was delighted to find Alice its sole
occupant. The undisguised joy with which she received him left
scarcely a doubt upon his mind as to the reception of his intended
proposals. After a few mutual inquiries respecting health, friends,
and so forth, William took her white hand in his, and said, or
attempted to say--I know not what--it stuck in his throat--and he
remained merely silent, holding the hand of Alice. There is something
so extremely difficult about making a pre-meditated declaration of
love. It is much easier when it can be surprised from a man. William
knew the moments were very precious. He knew that Colonel Delany or
his son might be expected to enter at any moment, and there would be
an end of opportunity for a month or six weeks to come; yet there he
sat, holding her hand, the difficulty becoming greater every minute,
while the crimson cheek of Alice burned with a deeper blush. At length
footsteps approached. William heard them, and becoming alarmed,
hastily, hurriedly, but fervently and passionately exclaimed:

"Alice, I love you with my whole heart, mind and strength. I love you
as we are commanded only to love God. Dearest Alice, will you become
my wife?"

"Miss Raymond," said Richard Delany, entering at this moment, "my
father desires your presence instantly in his study on business of the
utmost moment to yourself. Mr. Dulan, I hope, will excuse me, as we
have but just arrived, and many matters crave my attention.
Good-evening, sir," and, bowing haug