* * * *

On his way home, Dic called upon Sukey, and, finding her out, left word
he would return that evening. When she received the message her heart
throbbed with hope, and the dimples twinkled joyously for the first time
in many days. She used all the simple arts at her command to adorn
herself for his reception, and toiled to assist the dimples in the great
part they would soon be called upon to play in the drama of her life.
She knew that Dic did not trust her, and from that knowledge grew her
own doubts as to the course he would take. Hope and fear warmed and
chilled her heart by turns; but her efforts to display her charms were
truly successful; and faith, born of man's admiration, led her to
believe she would that night win the greatest prize the world had to
offer, and would save herself from ruin and disgrace.

Soon after supper the family were relegated to the kitchen, and Sukey,
with palpitating heart, waited in the front room for Dic.

Among our simple rural folk a decollete gown was considered immodest. In
order to be correct the collar must cover the throat, as nearly to the
chin and ears as possible. Sukey's dresses were built upon this plan,
much to her regret; for her throat and bosom were as white and
plump--but never mind the description. They suited Sukey, and so far as
I have ever heard they were entirely satisfactory to those so fortunate
as to behold them. Therefore, when she was alone, knowing well the
inutility of the blushing rose unseen, she opened the dress collar and
tucked it under at each side, displaying her rounded white throat, with
its palpitating little spot--almost another dimple--where it merged into
the bosom. There was no immodest exposure, but when Mrs. Yates returned
to the room for her glasses, the collar was quickly readjusted and
remained in place till Dic's step was heard. Now, ready, and all
together: dimples, lips, teeth, eyes, and throat, do your duty! So much
depended upon Dic that she wanted to fall upon her knees when he
entered. It grieves me to write thus of our poor, simple little girl,
whose faults were thrust upon her, and I wish I might have told this
story with reference only to her dimples and her sweetness; but Dic
shall not be hopelessly condemned for his sin, if I can prevent it, save
by those who are entitled to cast stones, and to prevent such
condemnation I must tell you the truth about Sukey. The fact that he
would not claim the exte