s now toward a future that promised a refuge, security, and even hope.

The quiet meal was soon over. Holcroft put a five-dollar bill in the
hands of the justice, who filled in a certificate and departed, feeling
that the afternoon had not been spent in vain.

"Jim," said Watterly, drawing his friend aside, "you'll want to make
some purchases. You know she's only what she wears. How are you off
for money?"

"Well, Tom, you know I didn't expect anything of this kind when--"

"Of course I know it. Will fifty answer?"

"Yes. You're a good friend. I'll return it in a day or two."

"Return it when you're a mind to. I say, Alida, I want you to take
this. Jim Holcroft can't get married and his bride not receive a
present from me," and he put ten dollars in her hand.

Tears rushed to her eyes as she turned them inquiringly to Holcroft to
know what she should do.

"Now see here, Tom, you've done too much for us already."

"Shut up, Jim Holcroft! Don't you end the day by hurting my feelings!
It's perfectly right and proper for me to do this. Goodby, Alida. I
don't believe you'll ever be sorry you found your way to my hotel."

Alida took his proffered hand, but could only falter, "I--I can never
forget."

Chapter XX.

Uncle Jonathan's Impression of the Bride

"Now, Alida," said Holcroft, as they drove away, "remember that we are
two middle-aged, sensible people. At least I'm middle-aged, and fairly
sensible, too, I hope. You'll need to buy some things, and I want you
to get all you need. Don't stint yourself, and you needn't hurry so as
to get tired, for we shall have moonlight and there's no use trying to
get home before dark. Is there any particular store which you'd like to
go to?"

"No, sir; only I'd rather go over on the east side of the town where
I'm not known."

"That suits me, for it's the side nearest home and I AM known there."

"Perhaps--perhaps you also would rather go this evening where you are
not known," she said hesitatingly.

"It makes no difference to me. In fact I know of a place where you'll
have a good choice at reasonable rates."

"I'll go where you wish," she said quietly.

They soon entered a large shop together, and the proprietor said
pleasantly, "Good evening, Mr. Holcroft."

"Good evening, Mr. Jasper. My wife wants to get some things. If
you'll be good enough to wait on her, I'll step out to do two or three
errands."

The merchant looked curiously at Alid