d the waiting and doubtful heart.

There was a good deal to say to Uncle Jason, and yet it was rather
difficult not to write too rapturously. When she had finished that she
bethought herself of Mr. Warfield. He had asked her to write.

She found no trouble here. Indeed the luncheon bell rang before she had
quite finished.

"You can go down to the post-office," Daisy exclaimed. "I want some
stamps and some sewing cotton. Roxy borrowed mine."

She hurried her letter in the envelope. Daisy had asked permission. She
sent her letters on their way with a light heart, though as she came
back it was rather heavy. Such a golden day as it was. And several of
the pupils were going out botanizing with Miss Grace. They all liked
Miss Grace very much. A girl less used to giving up would have
considered it very hard. But she enjoyed every moment of this brief walk
and came home with a great bunch of asters.

"If you only _were_ going! I should take twice the pleasure. Helen
Grant, I do believe I have fallen in love with you."

"I am very glad," returned Helen with shining eyes.

To think how she had run around the woods in Hope and never thought of
the wonderful beauty God had scattered so lavishly everywhere. This
delight was knowledge. Jenny never felt it as she walked in and out to
the factory. And Aunt Jane called it nonsense!

Madame Meran had some needlework and sat by her counting time, fingers
and thumbs. Helen was so in earnest she could not help being interested
in her.

"Oh, do you suppose I ever shall learn?" she inquired with a discouraged
sigh. "And I love music so."

"That is my hope about you. I have seen worse beginnings. You will never
make a wonderful pianist, but you have a really fine voice, and it is
nice to be able to play your own accompaniments."

"And someone I care for very much desires me to learn, someone to whom I
owe a debt of gratitude. So I shall do my best."

Then she went on steadily and did master two or three points.

"Now you may go in the study and practice, as I have to take Miss Craven
in hand, and I can trust you."

"Oh, thank you!" cried Helen delightedly. She was just as honest as if
Madame's eyes were on her. She gave the full hour although her wrist
ached, and her thumb seemed to lose its agility. But she had made a
slight advance, she could see that. And there were ten months to be
given to study.

She went out on the back porch presently, and then almost to the edge of