s in a remarkable degree. I know you have strength of
will and energy. What you undertake you carry through; and you are
far-sighted, you see what others of your age do not see. I do not say
it to flatter you, daughter, but I am sure Lord Upperton's
coat-of-arms is emblematic of the character of the lady whom he wishes
to see mistress of Halford Castle," said Mrs. Newville, with radiant
face.

It seemed to her that the fond hope of years was about to be realized;
that the time was at hand when the Newville family was to be ennobled;
when she, herself, could bid farewell to America, and be admitted to
the charmed society of dukes, barons, princes, kings, and queens.

"Lord Upperton will call to-morrow evening, dear, and I will have
Madame Riggoletti come in the afternoon to do your hair. You had
better wear your corn-colored satin brocade, which is so becoming to
you."

"No, mother, I do not wish to wear it. I prefer to dress plainly. I
want Lord Upperton to see me just as I am, a simple girl, who has had
few advantages to fit her for the life in which he moves. I cannot
appear to be what I am not."

Ruth paused a moment as if considering whether she should speak the
words upon her lips.

"Lord Upperton, you say, desires to pay his addresses to me and you
have given consent. It is an honor for any lady to receive attentions
from a gentleman of superior station, but I cannot promise you,
mother, that I shall look with favor upon his suit, honorable though
it may be."

It was said calmly but with resolution.

"I dare say, daughter, you may think so now. It is quite natural. It
is just what I said when my mother informed me that Theodore, your
father, had asked permission to pay his addresses to me. I said I
would not see him; but I did, and have been very glad ever since.
After a little while, I used to listen for his footsteps. There were
none like his. He always called Thursday evening after the
lecture,[49] and I used to sit by the window an hour before it was
time for him to put in an appearance, looking for him. So it will be
with you, child. Now go to bed, dear, and think of the great honor
which Lord Upperton is conferring upon us in asking for your hand!"

[Footnote 49: The lecture on Thursday of each week was instituted by
the Puritans soon after the settlement of Boston. There was a moral if
not a legal obligation upon every person to attend it. Consequently in
the earlier years of the Colony all busin