So I intrusted Sobriente with an invitation to young Brant on the spot." Mrs.Peyton's impatience, indignation, and opposition, which had successively given way before her husband's quiet, masterful good humor, here took the form of a neurotic fatalism.

She shook her head with superstitious resignation.
"Didn't I tell you, John, that I always had a dread of something coming"-- "But if it comes in the shape of a shy young lad, I see nothing singularly portentous in it.

They have not met since they were quite small; their tastes have changed; if they don't quarrel and fight they may be equally bored with each other.

Yet until then, in one way or another, Clarence will occupy the young lady's vacant caprice, and her school friend, Mary Rogers, will be here, you know, to divide his attentions, and," added Peyton, with mock solemnity, "preserve the interest of strict propriety.

Shall I break it to her,--or will you ?" "No,--yes," hesitated Mrs.Peyton; "perhaps I had better." "Very well, I leave his character in your hands; only don't prejudice her into a romantic fancy for him." And Judge Peyton lounged smilingly away.
Then two little tears forced themselves from Mrs.Peyton's eyes.