art--often against our
better judgment, and wander with it where it will--sometimes dropping
on the bosom of a calmly gliding river; again amid the turbulent waves
of a dark and stormy sea. Heaven grant that this last may not be the
fate of mine. The true reason, however, that I became attached to Miss
Fairleigh I think is this: I was so accustomed to, so tired of,
dignified, sedate and 'well-disciplined' young ladies, who always put
on church behavior and talk only of church matters when the minister
is near, that when I met her she was so different such a bright, merry
child of nature, I was charmed! Yes, I may say, refreshed, rested.
After the many sad and trying duties of our calling, father, we need
some one like Vallie Fairleigh to call forth a reaction of the mind.
But you shall have the promise, I will not advance a step further
until I know her better."

A few days after this conversation David Carlton was sitting in his
study, when his father entered, saying:

"David, I have a letter from home, hastening my return. So I shall
have to cut my visit a little short. I would go away much happier, if
my mind was relieved about Miss Fairleigh. I wish I could think her
worthy of the position you would place her in. I have noticed you much
since our conversation on that subject, and I am sure you are much
attached to her. I have an idea to put her to a test, not only
concerning her better feelings, but to prove the amount of influence
you have over her.

"Listen: This evening is appointed for the meeting to raise funds and
make arrangements relative to sending out a missionary to the ----
Indians. There has (you tell me) been but little interest awakened
among your people on this subject. Now, if you can induce the young
folks to take hold of this, it will be all right. This is also the
evening of Monsieur Costello's grand masquerade and the opera of
'Maritana.' I called on Mrs. Fairleigh about an hour ago. The ladies
were discussing these amusements. Miss Bland is very anxious to see
that particular opera, and was trying to persuade Valeria to go with
her. Mrs. Fairleigh positively forbade the ball; so when I left the
arrangement was, Miss Bland, Mrs. Fairleigh and the gentlemen were
going to enjoy the music, and Valeria is to remain home; but I very
much fear this she will not do. Now, David, go and ask her to
accompany you--urge her; tell her how much good her influence might
exert, and so on. If she consents, I