ad not been for
his sad end, I would not now be caring for any man, save my poor
Willie. But it is a lonesome life I am living--and it's kind of
natural for a woman to think kindly of some man; and the squire is a
real good fellow, and, to save me, I can't help wishing he would
speak, and be done with it.

"This valentine may be for my good luck, after all," Miss Henrietta's
thoughts were swift now, planning for the future; her feet kept pace
with them, and before she knew it, she was at her own door.

"Why, aunty, how handsome you do look! your cheeks are as rosy as our
apples," said Etta.

"Is that such a rarity, you should make so much of it?" answered Miss
Henrietta.

"No, indeed, aunty, I only hope I may ever be as good looking as you
are always. Did you get your yarn and tea?"

"Land! if I hain't forgot them! You see, child, the wind is blowing
rather fresh, and I was anxious to get back," she answered her niece;
but said to herself, "Henrietta Mayfield, I am ashamed on you to let
any man drive your senses away."

"Never mind, Ettie; you can go over and spend the afternoon with
Jessie Jones, and then get the things for me," she continued, glad of
an excuse to get Etta away.

Miss Henrietta was very particular with her toilet that afternoon, and
truly the result was encouraging. She was satisfied that she was
handsome still.

It was near dark when she saw the handsome stranger coming up the
garden walk.

"Did Miss Henrietta Mayfield receive a letter from me to-day?" he
asked.

"Yes, sir; walk in," answered Miss Henrietta, who, although quite
flurried, managed to appear quite cool.

"This, perhaps, may seem very precipitate in me, and I have feared
perhaps you might not look with any favor on my suit. Do, dear lady,
ease my fears. Can I hope that in time I may win the heart I am so
anxious to secure?"

"Ahem--well, I cannot tell, sure. You know, sir, we have to know a
person before we can love him. But I must confess I do feel very
favorably inclined towards you."

"Bless you, my dear friend; I may call you so now, until I claim a
nearer, dearer title. If you are now kindly disposed, I feel sure of
ultimate success. I feared the difference in our ages might be an
objection."

"No, no; I do not see why it need. It is well to have a little
advantage on one side or the other. But, my dear friend, should you
fail to secure the affection, you will not think unkindly of your
friend."

"No; only let