In the evening, while Rose was in the parlor for the first time in several days, a visitor was announced, a gentleman.
"Who is it, Sallie?"
"Stranger, ma'am."
"What does he want?"
But at this moment the visitor took the liberty to make himself known in person, a tall, slender man, with gray beard, neatly dressed, and evidently of the upper class.
Rose greeted the stranger politely and offered a chair.
Of course the maid, seeing that she was no longer needed, passed out and closed the door.
"To what do I owe the honor of this visit, sir?" questioned Rose.
"I could not stay away longer. I have been burning to see you and have it out," said the man in a trembling voice; then, with a quick movement he removed a wig and revealed a young and pleasant face.
Rose recoiled.