ay, reckless-looking young man, as he lighted a
cigar, and settled himself in a comfortable armchair with feet elevated
on the fender.

"Indeed I do," responded Hardin, quickly. "You and I made her a visit
one evening, you know, and she drew forth rather ominous fortunes for
both of us from her teapot of destiny. Ha, ha! what was it the hag told
me, Sumpter?"

"That you would be a wicked fellow, marry a lovely woman, who wouldn't
care a picayune for you, and live after you wished you were dead, I
believe, or something to that import, wasn't it?"

"Well, I reckon 'twas some talk of this sort; but what brought this
incident to your mind now, Jack?"

"It was recalled by sight of that young lady at your father-in-law's.
Don't you remember, that night we were at the rock den in Scraggiewood,
there was a child, a little girl, sleeping on a pallet in the room?"

"Yes, perfectly."

"Well, that child and this young lady are one and the same."

"It cannot be!" exclaimed Hardin, quickly.

"It is so, I'm positive. But stop; what is this girl's name?"

"Annie Evalyn."

"Exactly. I asked the old crone that night what was her child's name,
and she told me the one you have just repeated."

"Is it possible?" ejaculated Hardin in a ruminating manner.

"It is easy to convince your doubts. Just engage her in conversation and
allude to her early life. She'll betray herself, my word for it. Besides
I've heard of her since you left the east. She had a beau there at
Scraggiewood, one George Wild; and after picking up some education at a
country parson's, came west as governess in a wealthy family. These
several things have recurred to my memory since beholding her at Dr.
Prague's last evening; for, depend upon it, this fine lady, who
captivates all hearts, is the old Scraggiewood witch's daughter."

After this speech from Sumpter a silence ensued. Hardin was revolving in
his mind whether to divulge his plan of revenge to his companion, and
enlist him as a co-worker to assist in the completion of his schemes. He
saw this accidental information would aid in furthering his plans. How
should he use it? He rose and paced the floor.

"Jack," he said at length, giving him a slap on the shoulder, "can I
trust you?"

"Always, Hardin," was the ready response. "I am yours to command."

Another pause, and Hardin continued to pace the floor with nervous,
uneven steps. At length, as he passed the large, oval window, he caught
a glimpse o