nd to do after sending off this young
man? Be a dutiful child, and wed as I wish you?"

"Never, never, father! I intend to be dutiful only so far as not
wedding against your wishes, that is all--to leave the future to God,
only praying constantly that some blessed influence may be sent to
change your mind and heart," Susie answered, raising her eyes to his,
filled with earnest determination.

"Your prayers must have commenced already, my child. Some influence
hath surely been sent--some blessed influence, I truly believe. Yes,
my child, you will wed to please your father. Here, Frank, take her. I
ought to scold you for trying to coax her from me. I heard it all this
morning. But I forgive you for her sake, and bless you, too, boy, for
the sake of the one in heaven who loved you. There, there, daughter,
don't choke me with your kisses. Take her off, Frank, and make her
happy. She is a good child, and will make a true and loving wife. God
bless you both, my children!"

And so ended Susie's intended elopement.

THE TWO BROTHERS

"Ah here we are!" said pleasant voice, as the driver, having jumped
from his seat, opened the carriage door.

"Yes, sir, I think so. This is the street and number--244 or 246,
which did you say?"

"'Pon my word, I've forgotten, and lost the card," answered the
pleasant voice.

"The name, sir? I'll inquire."

"Never mind. I'll take a look at both houses, and see if I cannot
decide. I'm earlier than expected, so I can look well before they come
out to welcome me. Just dump my luggage down on the sidewalk, and make
off for another job," said the old gentleman, handing the fare to the
man, who soon after drove off.

"Well, here are two cottages alike, and very unlike, too. This one is
Charley's home, I know. Why? Because it is newly painted. The fencing
all in perfect order. The grounds, although very limited, are prettily
fixed up. Flowers and vines--ah, I like the looks of this place! And
I'm sure I'm right in fixing it in my mind as Charley's. Some
don't-carish fellow lives there--loves his pipe, cigars and wine, may
be, better than his home, wife and children. Dear, dear! how those
blinds are suffering for a coat of paint! A few dollars would make
that fence all right. How different that entrance would look with a
little rustic seat like this one! I wonder that fellow does not notice
how much he might improve his place, if he only did as Charley. But
here comes the servant. I'