new relative to the unfortunate circumstances
alluded to.

"My dear Mrs. Charlston," exclaimed Clara, excitedly, "since I have
patiently listened to your narration, will you now, as a favor I ask,
have patience until I render an explanation?"

"By all means I shall," replied Mrs. C.

"But before that I do so," said Clara, "I desire that Fred should be
present."

"That is impossible to-night," replied Mrs. C. "I shall, however, find
an opportunity of bringing the matter before Fred, in the manner in
which you represent it."

"On that unfortunate night, as I may term it," said Clara, "I left home
accompanied with Emma Harrison, an acquaintance of my own, and came
here, as usual, to see my child. When we had come as far as Mrs.
Josleyn's, she said to me, 'I have to call here, so you had better go on
to Charlston's, and you can call for me on your return.' I agreed
therewith,--and on my way home stepped in for Emma; but Mrs. Josleyn
informed me that she had gone out with her own daughters to spend the
evening with an acquaintance; and, perhaps, added she, they may not
return for an hour or two. Unwilling to wait so long I took my
departure; but had not gone far when Charlie Holstrom stepped forth, and
requested the privilege of seeing me home. The night being dark, and
somewhat unpleasant for a woman to be out alone I embraced the
opportunity, and with him went directly home. After having chatted a
short time with us all he left the house and I have not seen him since.
I knew not that the jealous eyes of Fred were staring upon us that
night. He was able to follow me, why was he not also able to accompany
me home?

"For years my fond heart has invariably responded to his own; and I have
done nothing to either insult his honor or tarnish the fidelity of my
affection for him. He has falsely accused me. He has treated me
disrespectfully; and now manifests a determination to dissolve our
union. Since the moment that I yielded up the chastity of my affection
to his desires he has treated me too frequently with indifference. He
promised to rectify, or, rather, ameliorate the error we committed, by
an immediate union for life. His promises at intervals were again and
again repeated; and when I suggested the adequate necessity of having
them fulfilled he treated me with contempt. Where, I ask, is the happy
home he promised me at Tiverton. Where, also, are the half dozen of
homes he has since reared for me in London. He also