"Indeed, but you have greatly changed."
There was an unmistakable coolness visible in Mr. Clark's conduct towards him, but he readily understood why it was so, for after betrothing himself to his daughter he had disappeared mysteriously, and given no sign.
"Well, sir, when you learn what I have been through since last we met, you will not wonder at the change in me. Is Laura well?"
Mr. Clark looked at him a moment without making any reply, then beckoning him to follow, led the way to their parlors.
"Are you sure she will welcome me, sir?"
"That will depend; Laura, please come this way a moment," he called.
"Yes, papa, dear, what is it?" she asked, as she came from her chamber, and her sweet voice thrilled him just as it used to.
"Do you know this gentleman?"
She gazed at Barnwell a moment, and then sat down in a chair without speaking.
"Do you not recognize me, Miss Clark?"