uncertain future. Leaning
back in his chair, with his eyes fixed on the grate Russell said gravely--

"There is now nothing to impede my successful career; obstacles are rapidly
melting away; every day brings me nearer the goal I long since set before
me. In two years at farthest, perhaps earlier, I shall return and begin the
practice of law. Once admitted, I ask no more. Then, and not till then, I
hope to save you from the necessity of labour; in the interim, Mr. Clifton
will prove a noble and generous friend; and believe me, my cousin, the
thought of leaving you so long is the only thing which will mar the
pleasure of my European sojourn."

The words were kind enough, but the tone was indifferent, and the
countenance showed her that their approaching separation disquieted him
little. She thought of the sleepless nights and wretched days she had
passed waiting for a letter from that tall, reserved, cold cousin, and her
features relaxed in a derisive smile at the folly of her all-absorbing
love. Raising his eyes accidentally he caught the smile, wondered what
there was to call it forth in the plans which he had just laid before her,
and, meeting his glance of surprise, she said, carelessly--

"Are you not going to see Irene before you sail?"

His cheek flushed as he rose, straightened himself, and answered--

"A strange question, truly, from one who knows me as well as you do. Call
to see a girl whose father sent her from home solely to prevent her from
associating with my family! Through what sort of metamorphosis do you
suppose that I have passed, that every spark of self-respect has been
crushed out of me?"

"Her father's tyranny and selfishness can never nullify her noble and
affectionate remembrance of Aunt Amy in the hour of her need."

"And when I am able to repay her every cent we owe her, then, and not till
then, I wish to see her. Things shall change: _mens cujusque is est
quisque_; and the day will come when Mr. Huntingdon may not think it
degrading for his daughter to acknowledge my acquaintance on the street."

A brief silence ensued, Russell drew on his gloves, and finally said,
hesitatingly--

"Dr. Arnold told me she had suffered very much from a fall."

"Yes; for a long time she was confined to her room."

"Has she recovered entirely?"

"Entirely. She grows more beautiful day by day."

Perhaps he wished to hear more concerning her, but she would not gratify
him, and, soon after, he took up