a
superstitious start, as if he had seen an apparition. The red man
stated in broken English that he had brought a letter a long way from
the "lodge of the pale face, to the Wolf squaw."

Daddy hastened to put the letter in Little Wolf's hand. It proved to
be a rather lengthy communication from Antoinette La Claire, and as
all were interested, at Little Wolf's request, Louise proceeded to
read it aloud.

"Fairy Knoll, Jan. 20th, 18--.

MY DEAR MISS DEWOLF:

A faithful Indian, known for a long time to cousin John, has
called here on his route to Chimney Rock and I embrace the
opportunity to write to you, as it will probably be the last
I shall have before spring opens.

Cousin John has fitted up a cosy little room for me in the
loft. It is hung around with skins and blankets, and is made
comfortably warm by the fire below. There is one little
window from which I obtain a fine view of the "City of
Trees," which you used so much to admire. They are now shorn
of their foliage, and snow and ice cover the branches, and,
forsaken by their summer inhabitants, they stand and sadly
moan day and night.

But these mournful sounds pass unheeded, by the happy couple
in this peaceful cottage. Not a cloud has yet darkened their
"honeymoon." All their hours are pleasant hours, and all
their dreams are pleasant dreams. On these wintry mornings we
rise rather late; after the sun has peeped in at the window a
long time.

Cousin John goes out in the warmest part of the day to split
rails, but, even then, he finds it convenient to take his
brandy bottle with him. He is a firm believer in the efficacy
of brandy to keep out the cold. But when, with the experience
I have had, I see him in perfect strength and health, go out
day after day with that little flask in his side pocket, I
pray that it may never become a snare to him.

Yesterday morning, as he was about starting, I ventured to
remonstrate with him. "Cousin John" I said, "I would not
take the brandy to-day, I do not think you will miss it." He
laughed good naturedly, and turning to Cousin Maria, he said,
'Maria dear, Antoinette is concerned about my morals. Shall I
tell her of a certain lady who drained Mr. Sherman's wine
bottle on her way to Fairy Knoll?"

Cousin Maria blushed and said, "I am sorry John tha