XXVII.

VERTY STATES HIS PRIVATE OPINION OF MISS SALLIANNA.

Fanny complimented Mr. Ralph Ashley with a very indifferent bow, and
went on talking with, or rather to, her companion Verty.

Ralph tried to laugh at this; but not succeeding very well, came
suddenly to the very rational conclusion that something unusual was
going on in his breast. He had never before failed to utter the most
contagious laughter, when he attempted the performance--what could the
rather faint sound which now issued from his lips be occasioned by?

Puzzled, and at his philosophy's end, Ralph began to grow dignified;
when, luckily, Redbud approached.

The young girl greeted him with one of her kind smiles, and there was
so much light and joy in her face, that Ralph's brow cleared up.

They began to converse.

The chapter of accidents, whereof was author that distinguished
inventor of fiction, Miss Sallianna, promised to make the present
interview exceedingly piquant and fruitful in entertaining
misunderstanding; for the reader will observe the situation of the
parties. Miss Sallianna had persuaded Verty that Redbud was in love
with Ralph; and, in the second place, had assured Ralph, a few moments
before, that Fanny was in love with Verty.

Redbud was clinching Verty's doubts by smiling sweetly on
Ralph;--Fanny was causing dreadful jealousy and conviction of his
misfortune in Ralph, by making herself agreeable to Verty.

The schemes of the great Amazonian General, Sallianna, seemed to be
crowned with complete success; and, doubtless, all would have turned
out as she desired, but for one of those trivial circumstances which
overturn the most carefully matured conceptions of the greatest
intellects.

This was the simplicity of our friend Verty; and he unconsciously
commenced the overturning operation by saying:

"Redbud, did you find the flowers you wanted?"

The young girl replied:

"Oh, yes!"

"'Beauties of nature,' Miss Sallianna would call 'em, would'nt she?"
continued Verty, with a smile.

"Now, Verty!" said Redbud, reproachfully.

"I can't help it," returned Verty; "I don't like Miss Sallianna."

"Not like that paragon!" cried Fanny.

"No."

"Why not, sir?"

"She told me a story."

"A story, sir!"

"Yes."

"You ought to be ashamed of yourself to speak so disrespectfully of
such a divine creature--with so much maiden innocence and intrinsic
simplicity," observed Miss Fanny, inclining her head upon one
shoulde