nities for visiting his
sister, and upon each visit he was received, not only by the Sea-flower,
but by Winnie herself, with a warm welcome.

But Winnie, as we have discovered, has been a sad coquette. Another
year, however, has been added to her age since we saw her in society
last, and this last year, so different from any other of her sunny life,
has brought with it the knowledge and experience of many. Perhaps the
Sea-flower's influence, which fortunately she has been under, may have
had its effect upon her character, which is now forming itself; and yet
her bewitching smile, which Harry loved to dwell upon, when he had
returned to his island home, as second only to his matchless sister's,
was very like those which she had bestowed upon many an elated gallant.

Natalie had not failed to notice the seeming pleasure with which her
brother had listened to Winnie's brilliant conversation, and she had
asked herself if it were possible that Winnie could be so heartless as
to impress her brother with erroneous views in regard to her sentiments.
She would not believe that she had the heart to do it; and yet, through
habit, and a perfect thoughtlessness of the consequences, she might be
led to do so.

It was evening, and the two sat folded in each other's arms, gazing at
an autumn sunset. Winnie was still in her black habiliments, for it was
not quite a year since Mrs. Santon had died. Harry had left them the day
before, and had bade them both a warm farewell. Winnie had been silent
for some moments, when Natalie remarked,--"What new scheme are you
planning now, Winnie? you are very thoughtful to-night."

Winnie roused herself, and blushingly replied, "I do not wonder that
you note my thoughtful moments, I am such a gay creature; but, dear
Natalie, there are times when even _I_ can be serious, though there are
few who could credit my words."

"I can believe you, Winnie, for I know you have a good heart; but what
can have occurred of sufficient importance to banish those dimples from
your cheek? Come, rogue, make me your confidant, or I shall begin to
think you are at your old tricks, after all."

"If I did not know your forgiving spirit, I should hesitate to place
myself in your power, for fear you might repay me with interest, in
making you, and your particular friend Mr. Delwood, the subjects of my
merriment."

Natalie looked calmly into her eyes; the truth flashed across her mind
at once, and she was about to clas