I don't like to think of it; I want to see it changed--especially after what has happened to-day.

No! no! it is useless to tell me that you have your old nurse.
She is too old; she is not in your rank of life--there is no sufficient protection in the companionship of such a person for a lady in your position.

Don't mistake me, Agnes! what I say, I say in the sincerity of my devotion to you.' He paused, and took her hand.

She made a feeble effort to withdraw it--and yielded.

'Will the day never come,' he pleaded, 'when the privilege of protecting you may be mine?
when you will be the pride and joy of my life, as long as my life lasts ?' He pressed her hand gently.