e
was observed to watch Louis for a minute, and then turn suddenly away
as if disgusted.

The madrigal concert took place about the end of the quarter, and on the
following Saturday afternoon, the monotony of Ashfield House was varied
by the arrival of a new scholar, in the person of Mr. Henry Norman, who
was placed as a parlor boarder with the doctor.

When Hamilton and Louis returned from the playground together,
they discovered this young gentleman sitting on the table, carefully
balancing the doctor's chair with one of his feet, deeply immersed
in the contents of a new book with only partially cut leaves, left
by accident on the table. His back was turned towards them, and he
was so engrossed in the twofold occupation of reading and keeping the
heavy chair from falling, that he did not notice their entrance, and
Louis, not recognizing his figure at first, nor knowing that he was
expected, left the business of welcoming the stranger to his senior.

"Our new school-fellow, Louis, I suppose," said Hamilton, in a low tone,
as he scrutinized the lengthy figure before him. "I know that fellow,
Louis--he is a friend of yours."

Before Louis had time to answer, the low murmur had disturbed
Norman; and, looking up without altering his position in the least,
he acknowledged his acquaintance with Louis by a nod, and a careless
"How do you do?"

Louis advanced directly with a warm welcome and out-stretched hand
that was met by two fingers of Norman's left hand, tendered in a
manner so offensive to Hamilton that he debated whether he should
turn the intruder out of window, or walk himself out of the door;
and concluded by drawing back in disdainful anger.

Louis was not so ready to take offence, though he was sensitive
enough to feel a little hurt; and, turning round to his friend,
introduced Norman to him.

Norman took a steady quick glance at Hamilton, and, though his lips
were full of propriety, there was something like a sarcastic smile
in his eyes.

"You are not altogether a stranger to me, Mr. Hamilton, though,
I imagine, I am to you," he said, as he allowed the chair to regain
its legs, and got off the table, throwing the book on another,
several yards distant.

"I must confess you have the advantage of me," said Hamilton,
coldly. "I was not aware that I had the honor of being known
to you."

"I assure you, then, that you had that honor.--Dear me!" he
added, as he threw himself into the doctor's chair, stre