neyings a _solitude
a deux_, instead of solus. So we shall be married in September, at
the Shrubberies, and sail for Europe almost immediately.

Now, I want you to stand by me in this, as you have in other
things, and help me through. I want you, in short, to be my "best
man" as you have been my Best friend. "Best man," I should inform
you, is an English wedding institution, which our swell people
have suddenly discovered is a necessity to make a marriage
ceremony legal. He doesn't do much. Holding his principal's hat, I
believe, is the most serious duty that falls to him, though
perhaps not stepping on the bridal dresses is more difficult.

My Mamma wants me to drive with her, so this must be continued in
our next.

Aff.,

W.

Peter did not read law that morning. But after sitting in his chair for
a couple of hours, looking at the opposite wall, and seeing something
quite different, he took his pen, and without pause, or change of face,
wrote two letters, as follows:

DEAR WATTS:

You hardly surprised me by your letter. I had suspected, both from
your frequent visits to the Shrubberies, and from a way in which
you occasionally spoke of Miss Pierce, that you loved her. After
seeing her, I felt that it was not possible you did not. So I was
quite prepared for your news. You have indeed been fortunate in
winning such a girl. That I wish you every joy and happiness I
need not say.

I think you could have found some other of the fellows better
suited to stand with you, but if you think otherwise, I shall not
fail you.

You will have to tell me about details, clothes, etc. Perhaps you
can suggest a gift that will do? I remember Miss Pierce saying she
was very fond of pearls. Would it be right to give something of
that kind?

Faithfully yours,

PETER.

DEAR MISS PIERCE:

A letter from Watts this morning tells me of his good fortune.
Fearing lest my blindness may perhaps still give you pain, I write
to say that your happiness is the most earnest wish of my life,
and nothing which increases it can be other than good news to me.
If I can ever serve you in any way, you will be doing me a great
favor by telling me how.

Please give my regards to Mr. and Mrs. Pierce, and believe me,

Yours ever sincerely,

PETER STIRLING.

After these letters we