"Pray, Doctor, how came you so thoroughly acquainted with our different tastes?
You have selected admirably." "I am gratified at succeeding so happily in my arrangement of them.
But I hope your aunt is not seriously indisposed ?" "No, merely a bad nervous attack, to which she is subject." "Miss Mary, as you are free from apprehension on her account, can you take a short ride this evening?
I have a gentle horse at the gate, and if you will trust yourself with me, I think a good canter will benefit you exceedingly: will you go ?" Mary sought Florence's eye; it brightened with pleasure.
"Certainly, Mary; why do you hesitate?
I am very glad Dr.Bryant suggested it; I will take good care of aunt, and the ride will doubtless benefit you." "You are very kind, Doctor; I will only detain you while I change my dress." And she withdrew.
"Don't you think she looks much better to-day ?" asked Florence, anxiously, as her cousin left the room.
"She has certainly more color, but I am afraid it is only a feverish glow.

Let me entreat you, Miss Hamilton, to watch over her with the greatest care: the slightest exposure might cause a return of that terrible cough, and in her feeble state I fear for the consequences." "She has grown very, very thin, within the last month; but then, when warm weather comes again, I doubt not she will grow rosy and strong once more." They both sighed heavily, as though against conviction each had striven to cheer the other.
Mary re-entered the room equipped for her ride, and now, for the first time, Florence thought her cousin beautiful.

Beneath her straw hat floated back from her fair face a luxuriant mass of brown curls; a bright blush mantled the delicate cheek, and the gentle blue eyes seemed unusually large and brilliant.

A smile dimpled round her lip as she met the fond glance bent upon her.

Florence tenderly clasped her hand a moment, then kissed her warmly, and bade Dr.Bryant take all care of her.