m with a different and
higher feeling."

Kate's voice trembled. As she uttered the last few words, she lost
control of herself, and bent forward, and hid her face upon her
father's arm.

Mr. Darlington, as might well be supposed, was taken altogether by
surprise at so unexpected an announcement. The language used by his
daughter needed no interpretation. She was the maiden beloved by his
clerk.

"Kate," said he, after a moment or two of hurried reflection, "this
is a very serious matter. Edwin is only a poor clerk, and you--"

"And I," said Kate, rising up, and taking the words from her father,
"and I am the daughter of a man who can appreciate what is excellent
in even those who are humblest in the eyes of the world. Father, is
not Edwin far superior to the artificial men who flutter around
every young lady who now makes her appearance in the circle where we
move? Knowing him as you do, I am sure you will say yes."

"But, Kate----"

"Father, don't let us argue this point. Do you want Edwin to go
away?" And the young girl laid her hand upon her parent, and looked
him in the face with unresisting affection.

"No dear; I certainly don't wish him to go."

"Nor do I," returned the maiden, as she leaned forward again, and
laid her face upon his arm. In a little while she arose, and, with
her countenance turned partly away, said--

"Tell him not to go, father----"

And with these words she retired from the room.

On the next evening, as Edwin was sitting alone in one of the
drawing-rooms, thinking on the long night of absence that awaited
him, Mr. Darlington came in, accompanied by Kate. They seated
themselves near the young man, who showed some sense of
embarrassment. There was no suspense, however, for Mr. Darlington
said--

"Edwin, we none of us wish you to go away. You know that I have
urged every consideration in my power, and now I have consented to
unite with Kate in renewing a request for you to remain. Up to this
time you have declined giving a satisfactory reason for your sudden
resolution to leave; but a reason is due to us--to me in
particular--and I now most earnestly conjure you to give it."

The young man, at this became greatly agitated, but did not venture
to make a reply.

"You are still silent on the subject," said Mr. Darlington.

"He will not go, father," said Kate, in a tender, appealing voice.
"I know he will not go. We cannot let him go. Kinder friends he will
not find anywhere th