to be considered a "catch,"
in the matrimonial market. It is safe to say that at least half a dozen
young ladies had set their caps for him. Among these was Luella
Ferguson, and there were those who considered her chance of landing the
prize the best. At any rate Mr. Lindsay, who had been employed by the
elder Ferguson in some legal matter, became a frequent caller, to the
great satisfaction of Luella Ferguson. It may not be considered a mark
of taste on the part of the young man to have fallen a victim to the
young lady's arts, but in his presence she was all that was amiable.
She was not without a certain attractiveness of face, which, had it
been joined to an equally agreeable disposition, might have proved a
good excuse to any young man for succumbing to her fascinations. Never
for a moment had he cause to suspect that she was otherwise than she
seemed. Kind and sympathetic himself, the absence of these qualities,
if known to him, would have rendered her repulsive to him.

He conducted Ruth to a drug store, and the druggist administered
restoratives that soon brought back her strength and color, but not her
cheerfulness.

"I am strong enough now to go on my way," she said rising. "How can I
thank you, sir, for your kindness?"

"By allowing me to see you to your own door," and this he insisted on
despite Ruth's protest.

"Would it be indiscreet," he asked, when they had set out on their way,
"to ask if you can account for your sudden illness?"

"I had a shock," she answered.

"Of what sort? Are you willing to make me your confidant? I do not ask
out of curiosity, but because it may be in my power to serve you."

"I have so few friends that I will not decline your kind offer."

"You were coming from the house of Mr. Robert Ferguson?"

"Yes, sir; do you know him?"

"Quite well. I was myself going there."

"Is he considered--an honorable man?"

"Why, surely. What can lead you to doubt it?"

In answer Ruth told her story. The young lawyer listened in pained
surprise. Strictly honorable himself, he found it hard to believe that
a man whom he knew so well could be guilty of the meanness of
defrauding two women whose interests had been confided to him. Yet the
story seemed probable. Moreover, even had matters been as Mr. Ferguson
represented, his want of feeling seemed almost as bad as absolute
dishonesty. He asked Ruth several questions in order that he might
become fully possessed of all particulars.

"T