Page:A strange, sad comedy (IA strangesadcomedy00seawiala).pdf/190

178 "My dear young friend,—for you must allow me to address you as a father after that astounding statement,—you are not, and never can be worldly minded. You are a very clever girl—but it is the wisdom of the dove, not of the serpent."

"Very graceful indeed. I thank you. You have a pretty wit when you choose to exercise it. Now, good-by. I hope so much I shall, some time or other, see—your sisters—again."

"Oh, hang my sisters! Don't you want to see me again?"

"Y-y-yes. A little. A very little." But while saying this, her hand softly returned Farebrother's clasp.

It was still dark next morning, when Letty slipped out of bed and ran to the window, pulling aside the dimity curtains—she had heard the old carriage rattling up to the door. The moon had gone down, but the stars still shone in the blue black sky. Presently Farebrother came out, accompanied by the Colonel. Letty could hear their voices, and saw Farebrother take off his hat as he shook the Colonel's hand. Then he sprang into the carriage. Tom Battercake gave the restless