motions, so that none in the office noticed his excitement.

It was the same on the morrow, and, as if the fates had combined to crush
him in absolute wretchedness, he encountered Rutherford and Dolly riding
out as he was making his way homeward. He affected not to see them, but
he could not avoid furtively watching Dolly, who certainly was the most
winsome-looking young miss he had ever seen.

"To-night another party is given by the Grandins. Their girls are ladies,
and they treated me well when I was there more than two years ago, but in
this matter Dolly has had all to say--that is, she and Rutherford. Well,
if she is that sort of girl, I don't want anything to do with her."

That night, in spite of himself, Ben could not stay at home; he strolled
along, a prey to his bitter thoughts, and mechanically walked in the
direction of the splendid grounds of the wealthy jeweler, Mr. Grandin.
The sound of music from within aroused him.

He saw the lights glimmering through the beautiful shade trees, and could
catch sight of the gayly-dressed figures flitting by the open windows.

"I can't feel any worse," muttered Ben, walking through the open gate,
confident that he would attract no special attention.

He sauntered up the graveled walk, turning off to the right and moving
slowly along, with his gaze fixed upon the gay lads and lasses within,
who seemed to be in the very height of enjoyment.

At that instant someone caught his arm, and Ben turned with an apology
for his forgetfulness.

"I beg pardon, but I was so interested in the scene that I did not notice
where I stepped----"

He paused, fairly gasping for breath, for there stood Dolly Willard at
his side, with her hand upon his arm. The light streaming from the
windows fell upon her charming face, on which there was an expression
that young Mayberry did not understand.

"Ben," said she, in a voice that sounded unnatural, "I've got something I
want to say to you."

"And I have a good deal that I would like to say to you," he retorted,
firing up, now that the little empress stood before him.

CHAPTER XXIV

STARTLING DISCOVERIES

"You say you have something to speak about," added the boy, looking into
the enchanting face, as it reflected the light from the windows near at
hand; "I have only to suggest that it took you a good time to find it
out."

"It is not I, but you who are to blame."

"Possibly I am to be blamed for being born poor while you a