ady, apparently about
twenty-five years of age, was leaning on his arm. She was attired with
great simplicity, wearing a dark brown cloak, and a bonnet of the same
colour, relieved by some light-blue ribbon about the face. She was
somewhat below the middle size, but had a good figure. Her features were
small and regular; her complexion clear but pale; and her light-brown
hair was neatly arranged. She never lifted her eyes as she walked slowly
up the aisle.

The two approached the spot where Gerty sat, but without perceiving her.
"I am glad you like the organ," said the gentleman; "I am not much of a
judge of music, but they say it is a superior instrument, and that
Hermann plays it remarkably well."

"Nor is my opinion of any value," said the lady; "for I have little
knowledge of music, much as I love it. But that symphony sounds very
delightful to me; it is a long time since I have heard such touching
strains; or, it may be partly owing to their striking so sweetly on the
solemn quiet of the church this afternoon. I love to go into a large
church on a week-day. It was very kind of you to call for me this
afternoon. How came you to think of it?"

"I thought you would enjoy it, my dear. I knew Hermann would be playing
about this time; and, besides, when I saw how pale you were looking I
knew the walk would do you good."

"It has done me good. I was not feeling well, and the clear, cold air
was just what I needed; I knew it would refresh me; but Mrs. Ellis was
busy, and I could not go out alone."

"I thought I should find the sexton here," said the gentleman. "I want
to speak to him about the light; the afternoons are so short now, and it
is dark so early, I must ask him to open more of the blinds, or I cannot
see to read my sermon to-morrow. He may be in the vestry-room; he is
always about here on Saturday; I will go and look for him."

Just then Mr. Cooper entered the church, and, seeing the clergyman, came
up, and after receiving his directions about the light, requested him to
go with him somewhere, for the gentleman hesitated, glanced at the young
lady, and then said, "I suppose I ought to go to-day; and, as you say
you are at leisure, it is a pity I should not; but I don't know----"

Then, turning to the lady, he said, "Emily, Mr. Cooper wants me to go to
Mrs. Glass's with him; and I shall be absent some time. Should you mind
waiting here until I return? She lives in the next street; but I may be
detained, f