What! The father to die, and his son's hand not in his; no looks of love and forgiveness to pass between them as the poor old man leaves this world, its ambitions and its quarrels, and perhaps sees for the first time how small they all are compared with the love of those that love us, and the peace of God!" Then this ardent girl stretched out both her hands.

"O God, if my frivolous life has been innocent, don't let me be the cause of this horrible thing; don't let the father die without comfort, nor the son without forgiveness, for a miserable girl who has come between them and meant no harm!" This eloquent burst quite overpowered poor old John Baker.

He dropped into a chair, his white head sunk upon his bosom, he sobbed and trembled, and for the first time showed his age.
"What on earth is the matter ?" said Mr.Bartley's voice, as cold as an icicle, at the door.

Mary sprang toward him impetuously.

"Oh, papa!" she cried, "Colonel Clifford is dying, and we don't know where Walter is; we can't know." "Wait a little," said Bartley, in some agitation.