"And now, before I go, Louis, you will wish me joy, I am sure."
"Most certainly, dear Mary," he replied, as he fervently wrung her proffered hand, "all possible joy and happiness that heaven and earth can bestow upon you."
"Thank you very much, dear Louis," Mary replied, "and I may write," she added, more timidly, "and tell him that he may come; I would not let him do so again, till I had informed you of our engagement."
"Oh yes, write of course if you like, most certainly."
And Mary, again thanking him, left the library, and returned to the drawing-room.
CHAPTER XVI.
She watch'd for him at dawn, and she watched for him at noon,
Tho' well she knew she could not hope to see him come so soon;
She could not rest, but peeping thro' her casement's leafy screen,
She watched the spot where she was told his form would first be seen.
HAYNES BAYLEY.