t, according to promise.

All three retired at once to their berths, and Elsie wept herself to
sleep, thinking of the dear ones left behind; especially the mother who
had so tenderly cherished her from her birth and the sick little ones who,
she feared, might not be there to welcome her return. Thinking too of him
to whom she was going, his probable suffering, and the dread possibility
that at her journey's end she should find only his grave.

They reached New York in good season, having met with no accident or
detention. The steamer would not leave for some hours, but it was Elsie's
desire to go directly on board.

"I think that will be your best plan," said Mrs. Conly. "You can then
settle yourself in your state-room at once; and while Dinah unpacks what
you will need on the voyage, you can lie in your berth and rest. You are
looking greatly fatigued."

"You will come with us, Aunt Louise, will you not?" both the young people
asked.

"No, I must see Virginia. I shall have time for an hour's chat with her
and yet to reach the vessel some time before the hour fixed for her
sailing. Edward, you will see that my luggage is taken on board?"

"Certainly, aunt; but shall we not first drive to Virginia's residence and
leave you there? And I return for you after seeing my sister and the
luggage on board the steamer?"

"No, not at all!" she answered stiffly. "I am obliged for your offer, but
where would be the use? You may tell Ben to call a hack for me. I'll have
it wait at Virginia's door and drive me to the wharf when I am ready to
go."

Edward, thinking he had never known her so considerate and kind, hastened
to carry out her wishes, bidding Ben engage two hacks--one for Mrs. Conly
and another for themselves.

Consideration for her nephew and niece had nothing to do with Mrs. Conly's
plans and arrangements. If, as she greatly feared, Virginia were living in
other than aristocratic style, she would not for the world have it known
among the relatives who had heard her boasts in regard to Virgie's grand
match; "so much better than Isa had been led into while under the care of
her grandfather and uncle."

She had never before heard of the street mentioned in Virginia's last
letter, and her heart misgave her as to its being one of the most
fashionable for the abodes of the wealthy. The curiously scrutinizing look
and odd smile of the hack-driver when she gave him the address did not
tend to reassure her.

"Drive me