A LINK WITH CIVILISATION On the afternoon following Henry's departure, Esther went out for a walk, and she came presently to a pretty little house half hidden in its big garden.

A well-kept lawn, richly bathed in sunlight, flashed through the trees; and, opening the gate and following the tree-shaded path along one side of the house, Esther presently mounted to a small terrace, where, as she had hoped, she came upon a dainty little lady watering her flowers.
"Why, Esther, it's you! How sweet of you! I was just dying to see you!" exclaimed the little lady, turning a pretty, but somewhat worn, and brilliantly sad face from her gardening.

"Just let me finish this thirsty bed, and then you must give me a kiss.

There!" Then the two embraced; and as Mrs.Myrtilla Williamson held Esther at arm's length and looked at her admiringly,-- "How pretty you look to-day!" she exclaimed, generously.

"That new hat's a great success.