rprised that he did not ask for
references regarding either her character or qualifications. "Now, would
you like to see Bertha?" he asked. "I suppose we shall be obliged to
secure her sanction to this arrangement, for, to be perfectly frank with
you, her intuitions are very keen; she is a child of strong likes and
dislikes, and unless she is favorably impressed with a person, it is
almost impossible for that one to influence her."

Violet's heart sank at this, for if her future was to be governed by the
capricious fancies of a willful child, she feared that a very trying
experience lay before her.

Nevertheless she signified her desire to see this young autocrat, who
appeared to exercise such supreme control in that household. Rising, she
followed Mr. Lawrence from the room, up a wide, richly carpeted
stair-way, to a large, sunny apartment which overlooked the busy street.

It was a very pleasant room, and furnished with every luxury and device
to amuse, that the most exacting nature could desire.

In a large, richly upholstered chair, by one of the windows, sat a very
pretty girl of about twelve years. She had a clear, beautiful
complexion, with brown hair, rather massive features for one so young,
but upon which there were plainly written great strength of will and
decision of character; yet there was a sweet expression about her mouth
which bespoke a loving nature, and at once attracted Violet.

Her eyes were blue, but it was evident that they were very defective in
sight, though they were partially concealed by the glasses which she
wore.

She was amusing herself with some gayly dressed dolls that lay upon
another chair in front of her, while a maid sat near by, engaged in
dressing another.

The child looked up eagerly as the door opened, for she had recognized
her father's step; her lips wreathed with fond smiles, which plainly
indicated that she was devotedly attached to him.

"Why, papa!" she exclaimed, in a tone of surprise; "I didn't know that
you were at home. Did you bring me some candy? Who is that with you?"
she added, quickly, as she caught the sound of Violet's light steps.

"I have brought you something far better than candy," her father
responded, with a tender note in his voice; "I have invited a young lady
to come up to see you. Miss Huntington, this is my little daughter,
Bertha."

"Come here, Miss Huntington!" the child said, imperatively, and Violet
went at once to her side, greeting h