He flatly refused. "No," he said, laughing, "if I were to attempt it I should be old Regy again in a minute."

She sat down at his desk and wrote,—

Dear Friend,—

We have tried in vain to think of a gift for your

approaching marriage which will in any measure suitably express

to you our appreciation of your invaluable friendship.

Your remark just now in regard to a library and reading-room

has suggested the idea of giving to you funds sufficient for that