This time he did not forget Madonna's drawing; but, on the contrary, showed such unusual carefulness in tying his pocket-handkerchief over the frame to preserve it from injury as he carried it through the streets, that she could not help--in the fearless innocence of her heart--unreservedly betraying to him, both by look and manner, how warmly she appreciated his anxiety for the safe preservation of her gift.

Never had the bright, kind young face been lovelier in its artless happiness than it appeared at the moment when she was shaking hands with Zack.
Just as Valentine was about to follow his guest out of the room, Mrs.
Blyth called him back, reminding him that he had a cold, and begging him not to expose himself to the wintry night air by going down to the door.
"But the servants must be going to bed by this time; and somebody ought to fasten the bolts," remonstrated Mr.Blyth.
"I'll go, sir," said Mrs.Peckover, rising with extraordinary alacrity.
"I'll see Master Zack out, and do up the door.

Bless your heart! it's no trouble to me.

I'm always moving about at home from morning to night, to prevent myself getting fatter.

Don't say no, Mr.Blyth, unless you are afraid of trusting an old gossip like me alone with your visitors." The last words were intended as a sarcasm, and were whispered into Valentine's ear.