pell of love softened her and transformed her from a hard,
cynical, selfish girl to a woman seeking to charm one who had touched
her heart.

"He comes to see me very often, papa," she answered, coyly.

"And he seems impressed?"

"I think so," said Luella, lowering her eyes, while a gratified smile
lighted up her face.

"He has never actually proposed?" asked Ferguson eagerly.

"Well, not exactly, but from his manner I think he will soon."

"I hope so, Luella. There is no one whom I would more prefer for a
son-in-law."

"I shall not say him nay, papa."

"Of course not. He is rich and of distinguished family. He will make a
very suitable mate for you."

"Yes, papa, I appreciate that, but you too are rich and of high social
position."

"Well, daughter, I stand fairly, but as to family, I can't boast much.
My father--your grandfather--was a village blacksmith. I have never
told you that before."

"Horrors, papa!" exclaimed Luella. "You cannot mean this?"

"It is a sober fact. I have never told you, for I knew it would shock
you."

"Does any one know it in our circle?"

"No. Indeed, the only one who is likely to have any knowledge of it is
Mrs. Fenton and her son."

"The train boy!"

"Yes."

"If it should get out I should die of mortification."

"Neither you nor I are likely to mention it. I only referred to it to
show the advantages of marrying a man of high lineage like Alfred
Lindsay. I have money, but I have never been able to get into the inner
circle to which the Lindsays belong. Money will buy much, but it won't
buy that. I hope yon will do your best to bring the young mail to the
point."

"I will manage it, papa," said Luella complacently. "Do you know I have
made up my mind to go to Europe on a wedding trip?"

"If Lindsay consents."

"He will do whatever I wish. I expect him to call this evening."

"Do you?"

"Yes, and--papa, something might happen," added Luella playfully.

"I hope so sincerely, my dear."

"Mind, if he comes to you, not a word about the blacksmith! I wish you
hadn't told me."

"Forget it then, Luella. We will keep it a profound secret."

Luella left her father's presence with a smile upon her face. It was
already eight o'clock. Half an hour passed, and she became anxious.
Fifteen minutes more clipped by, and still the welcome ring at the bell
was not heard. She was ready to cry with vexation, for she had made up
her mind to lead the young man to a declaration t