“‘You are endeavoring to deceive me, which it is high time you were learning you cannot do. If you do not immediately proceed to inform me what has happened to distress you, I shall at once conclude that your professions of love for me are nothing more than sounding brass and tinkling cymbals. I knew as soon as I laid my eyes on you this morning that your mind was disturbed about something; and then I must remind you of the fact that I am a first-class mind-reader, and if you refuse to disgorge, I shall at once make a revelation that will startle you.’
“I began to dodge the question by an attempt to change the subject, but she gently placed her hand over my mouth.
“‘Not another word shall you utter until you make up your mind to tell me the whole truth—I have a presentiment that our bright sky is about to be obscured by lowering clouds—an invisible influence has been working on my mind, whispering ominous tales of approaching misfortunes. Our smooth sea is soon to be ruffled, and it is high time for us to set about trimming our sails so as to be ready for the storm which I fear is soon to burst upon us.’
“I proceeded to give her a minute history of the mysterious communications which had so disturbed and annoyed me. I noticed that the charming color of the rose that beautified her cheeks gradually disappeared as I imparted the mysterious news to her, and her hand slightly trembled as she attempted to arrange a bouquet from a quantity of flowers which she had gathered. ‘Now, Lottie, what do you think it all means?’
“‘I will answer you in real Yankee fashion. Do you know of any person who bears malice or ill-will toward you?’
“‘No.’
“‘Have you had any misunderstanding or quarrel with any man lately?’
“‘No.’
“‘Have you had any legal entanglements which could cause any one to dislike you?’
“‘No.’