"
"I think I am quite safe, sir. I am not at all susceptible, and it is
not likely that a young lady of her position in society and of such
beauty will cast a thought on me."
The next day the old gentleman had the pleasure of introducing those
he loved so well; and, to his infinite delight, saw his darling Minnie
had certainly made a desired impression on his young _protege_.
"Here he is, Minnie! the boy who stole half my heart away from you. I
do not know how you will settle it with him, unless you take his in
pay."
Often during the evening Uncle Lincoln noticed Will's gaze lingering
on his niece, and there was a softer light than usual in his fine
eyes; but, to his great regret, his boy did not appear to his usual
advantage. He was very silent, and his mind seemed absent--far away.
And so it truly was. In the lovely girl before him William Archer
beheld the joyous child who, on that dark day, spoke so kindly and
saved him from--he dreaded to think what!
Uncle Lincoln rubbed his hands and chuckled merrily to himself.
Everything was working to his entire satisfaction. These two
impenetrable hearts were growing wonderfully congenial, he thought.
A few days before Minnie's visit was concluded, William brought out
and placed in her hands a bunch of withered flowers; told his story of
how, long years ago, her sweet sympathy had cheered his desolate heart
and made him feel that there was still love in the world, then so dark
to him; that her kind action had awakened in his almost paralyzed mind
better thoughts, and let him know the only way to gain peace and
happiness, and, finally, meet his mother, was in living on--putting
his trust and faith in God's goodness and mercy!
And then he told his love and gained hers; and, with her dear hand
clasped in his, stood waiting Uncle Lincoln's blessing!
"Minnie might do very much better," said the aspiring mamma; "but it
was Uncle Lincoln's wish.
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