Your old father loves you still." She could not stay the wild rush of feeling that was overmastering her.

Passionate sobs heaved her breast, and tears came raining from her eyes.
"Now, don't, Irene! Don't take on so, daughter! I love you still, and we will be happy here, as in other days." "Yes, father," said Irene, holding down her head and calming her voice, "we will be happy here, as in the dear old time.

Oh we will be very happy together.

I won't leave you any more." "I wish you had never left me," he answered, mournfully; "I was always afraid of this--always afraid.

But don't let it break your heart; I'm all the same; nothing will ever turn me against you.