h of her babe. The suspicion
resting on her is killing her."

The suffering girl was showing signs of returning consciousness. Then
a quick step was heard in the entry. She started up and cried out:

"Willie is come! Thank God!" and sank back, almost lifeless.

William Bland, for truly it was so, rushed forward and dropped on his
knees beside the bed, saying:

"How is this? Why have you not answered my letters? Doctor, save her!"

Advancing, the doctor raised her head gently and gave her a little
wine, saying:

"Speak to her, reassure her; that is all she needs now."

"Listen, Mary love, dear wife, and mother!" he whispered, in
astonishment, as Valeria held before him the little sleeping babe,
while a flush of paternal pride passed over his fine face. "There is
no more need of silence; I am free and proud to claim you, darling.
Uncle knows all, and bids me bring you to him. He was very ill. I
nursed him and his life was spared. The fatigue, and more than all the
worry of mind about you, brought on a severe nervous fever. I have
been very ill. Julia knew it. Did you not hear? In my ravings I told
all. Uncle has changed much since his recovery. He is no longer
ambitious, except for my happiness, and is now waiting to welcome
you."

The wonderful medicine had been administered, and already the happy
effects were apparent.

With her hand clasped in her husband's she was slumbering peacefully,
while a smile of sweet content lingered on the pale face.

The doctor soon bade adieu, saying:

"I see I shall not be needed any longer. She will very soon be strong
again."

"Miss Fairleigh, I am awaiting your pleasure. Are you to return to
your home to-night?" asked Mr. Carlton.

"Oh, yes. Bridget promised to come for me, but I must get back before
mamma and Julia; yet I forget there is no further need of concealment:
I am so very glad! I will be over in the morning. Good-night."

"God bless you, Vallie! you have been a ministering angel to my loved
ones. You can tell Julia I have returned and am with my wife. I fear
my sister has acted very wickedly in this matter. I have written many
times and received no answer. Some one, for whom they were not
intended, got those letters. Perhaps I judge her harshly. Good-night,"
said William Bland.

Vallie, accompanied by Mr. Carlton, was soon on her way home. They had
gone but a short distance when they were joined by David.

"Why, Mr. Carlton! how strange to meet you, when