CHAPTER XXIV.
BEN ON TRIAL "Excuse my intrusion, Cousin Hamilton; I see you are engaged." The speaker was Mrs.Hill, and the person addressed was her wealthy cousin.

It was two days after the event recorded in the last chapter.
"I am only writing a note, about which there is no haste.

Did you wish to speak to me ?" Mrs.Hamilton leaned back in her chair, and waited to hear what Mrs.
Hill had to say.

There was very little similarity between the two ladies.

One was stout, with a pleasant, benevolent face, to whom not only children, but older people, were irresistibly attracted.