CHAPTER V.
UNCLE ISRAEL.
The lamps were lighted in the cars, and on through the valley of the Connecticut the New Haven train was speeding its way.

In one corner of the car sat St.Leon, closely wrapped in cloak and thoughts, the latter of which occasionally suggested to him the possibility that his was a "Tomfool's" errand; "but then," thought he, "no one will know it if I fail, and if I do not, it is worth the trouble." When the train reached Hartford a number of passengers entered, all bound for New Haven.

Among them was a comical-looking, middle-aged man, whom St.Leon instantly recognized as a person whom he had known when in college in New Haven, and whom the students familiarly called "Uncle Israel." The recognition was mutual, for Uncle Israel prided himself on never forgetting a person he had once seen.

In a few moments St.Leon was overwhelming him with scores of questions, but Uncle Israel was a genuine Yankee, and never felt happier than when engaged in giving or guessing information.
At length St.Leon asked, "Does Ada Linwood fulfil the promise of beauty which she gave as a child ?" "Ada who ?" said Uncle Israel.
"Linwood," repeated St.Leon, arguing from the jog in Uncle Israel's memory that all was not right.
"Do you mean the daughter of Harcourt Linwood, he that was said to be so rich ?" "The same," returned St.Leon.

"Where are they ?" Uncle Israel settled himself with the air of a man who has a long story on hand, and intends to tell it at his leisure.