las and her intelligent and highly educated sons and daughters.
Perhaps to this cause may be attributed the amazing success which marked
Sir Howard's career through life. He had the entire and heartfelt
sympathy of his household. He was loved with the truest and fondest
affection as a husband and father. He, in return, placed every confidence
in his lovely and amiable wife and daughters, knowing that through them
he received great happiness; and, unfettered with those domestic trials
which attend some families, he was able to discharge the duties of state
with full and determined energy.

The hours that elapsed between luncheon and dinner were spent in the
various styles of decoration suggested by Lady Douglas. The important
Johnnie was under the direct supervision of Miss Cheenick, cutting off
and preparing little twigs for garlands, with occasional sallies of good
natured badinage.

Miss Douglas was making illuminated mottoes and texts in a quiet corner
of the apartment. Mary Douglas and her companion were busily weaving
pretty and graceful festooning. To each member was allotted some
especial part.

Every one participated in the preparation by noting each successive step
towards completion. Thus the work progressed until it was time for the
ladies to dress for dinner; after which the evening was spent in the
same occupation, with the valuable assistance of Mr. Howe and Captain
Douglas.

After several days had elapsed, the work was considered complete. The
design was choice and beautiful. Nothing was necessary to produce a more
graceful and pleasing effect. Holly there was none, but our woods
supplied the loss with lovely evergreens of native growth.

It was the day preceding Christmas eve. Mirth and joy revelled around
the glowing firesides. Happy faces beamed with radiating smiles. Each
was trying to do some small act of kindness for the benefit of the
household. A Christmas tree, in all its mysterious surroundings, was
being laden with beautiful presents. Loving tokens of friendship were
placed on its strong branches by lovely and delicate hands. Lady Douglas
presided over these mysteries, in the secret chamber, with the vigilance
of the dragon who guarded the golden apples in the classic shades of the
Hesperides. All busy little feet were turned towards the door, but
further entrance was barred by gentle admonition from her ladyship.

Lady Rosamond had been allowed the privacy of her own apartments without