“Nothing further,” answered Mr. Legare, and Hattie hurried away to her work, doubtless pleased to know that another of her talents had become known and appreciated.
“Have you never discovered that girl’s wonderful talent with the pencil before, Mr. W——?” asked the man of wealth.
“Never, sir; it is as great a surprise to me to-day as our mutual discovery of her proficiency in languages.”
“She is a wonderful girl.”
“A perfect mystery, sir—a perfect mystery. That she is a born lady, looks, actions, language, all testify. That she has been a willing, steady, silent, humble toiler here for over two years, I know. I feel as if it was unjust to her to remain in such a lowly position; but I know not how she can be removed from it.”
“I do,” said Mr. Legare.
“Ah! If not too bold, may I ask your plan?” said Mr. W——, turning very red in the face.
“Simply this: I have a widowed sister-in-law. She is a wealthy lady, of almost angelic disposition. She is childless. I will get her to adopt this young lady. She can give her a brilliant home, and a chance to enjoy all her tastes and talents. I am sure, from the character which you give of her, Miss Butler will more than justify the adoption.”
“It would indeed be a generous and a noble act, and could not be bestowed on a more worthy object,” said Mr. W——.
And a sigh, which even he could hardly have accounted for, followed his remark.