I've known you too many years, Hiram Ranger, not to know that your heart is in the right place.

And, after you think it over, you will give up this wicked--yes, wicked--plan old Doctor Hargrave has taken advantage of your sickness to wheedle you into." Hiram, his face and hands like yellow wax, made no answer.

Arthur and Adelaide followed Mrs.Whitney from the room.

"Thank you, Mrs.Whitney," said Arthur, gratefully, when they were out of his father's hearing.

"I don't know what has come over him of late.