He has a fine, large, old-fashioned house there, and his sister is a very nice woman; but they are a sort of respectable, retired set,--never go into fashionable company." "Oh, I don't mind it!" said Lillie.

"I shall have things my own way, I know.

One isn't obliged to live in Springdale, nor with pokey old sisters, you know; and John will do just as I say, and live where I please." She said this with her simple, soft air of perfect assurance, twisting her shower of bright, golden curls; with her gentle, childlike face, and soft, beseeching, blue eyes, and dimpling little mouth, looking back on her, out of the mirror.

By these the little queen had always ruled from her cradle, and should she not rule now?
Was it any wonder that John was half out of his wits with joy at thought of possessing _her_?
Simply and honestly, she thought not.

He was to be congratulated; though it wasn't a bad thing for her, either.
"Belle," said Lillie, after an interval of reflection, "I won't be married in white satin,--that I'm resolved on.