And now, my good friend, what of Jessie Loring?
I pray you keep me not longer in suspense." So wholly absorbed were they, that the ringing of the street door bell had not been heard, nor the movement of the servant along the passage.

Ere Mrs.Denison could reply, the parlor door was pushed quietly open, and Miss Loring entered.
"She stands before you!" said Mrs.Denison, starting up and advancing a step or two.
"Jessie Loring!" Mr.Hendrickson uttered the name slowly, but in a voice touched with the profoundest emotion.

He had arisen, but did not advance.

She stood suddenly still, and held her breath, while a paleness overspread her features.

But her long training had given her great self-control.
"Mr.Hendrickson," she said, advancing across the room.
He grasped her hand, but she did not return the ardent pressure, though the touch went thrilling to her heart.