ics who come within the radius of his powerful,
spiritual aura, sense or see this strong symmetrical body. His
affectionate and emotional nature is beautifully developed. No one can
appreciate the graces and charms of a refined, beautiful woman more
keenly than Gilbert Gerrish! Yet, I know, that in this life, he does not
for one moment, even dream of a possible marriage with any woman. He is
loyally devoted to his spiritual ideal!

"For many months, I have been to Gilbert a trusted friend and
confidential companion. In this capacity, I have learned his story of
the hidden romance of his young life. This story I will repeat to you as
an illustration of the high order of his boyish character. It cannot
fail to increase both your admiration and your respect, for this
youthful devotee at the shrine of love.

"When Gilbert was ten years old, while attending school at St. Louis, he
became acquainted with Rita Estelle Ringwood. She was in many ways a
remarkable girl; only two months younger than Gilbert. Tall and
straight, with a well rounded figure, already as large as a maid of
fourteen, Rita gave promise of an early development into a lovely woman.
With a large, finely formed head, crowned by a luxuriant growth of soft,
thick, wavy, chestnut hair; a smooth, creamy complexion, pleasing
features, firm mouth and well rounded chin; large, full, soft, brown
eyes, unusually expressive; a strong, well turned white throat and neck,
symmetrical shoulders, perfectly formed hands and feet; and a well
poised, graceful carriage, she appeared to Gilbert as some divine
creature. From the first moment of meeting, a strong bond of mutual
attraction drew them together. If kept long apart, both became nervous
and restless. When again united, they were quickly at peace with
themselves and all the world. By a strange coincidence, as it
transpired; Rita's parents lived in a house just across the street,
almost in the front of the one occupied by the Gerrish family. Through
the children, the parents soon became intimate friends. As Gilbert had
never cared to play with boys of his own age, either on the streets or
at school, it was natural under the circumstances, that he should devote
himself entirely to Rita, as the only congenial playmate he had ever
known. Very soon, as a consequence, the twain were almost always
together, either in one home or the other. They read or studied from the
same book, often pausing to discuss some question of more