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Florence's face softened; an expression of relief began to steal over her countenance; but as Mary ceased speaking, she turned her face, beautiful in its angelic purity, full upon her A bitter s hoarsely, "A few le will be over," she turned to her bureau, and arranged her clothes for packing
The day passed in preparation, and twilight found the cousins watching intently at the casereat clock in the hall chimed out seven, the last stroke died away, and then the sharp clang of the door-bell again broke silence They started to their feet, heard the street door open and close--then steps along the stairs, nearer and nearer--then came a knock at the door Mary opened it; the servant handed in a card and withdrew "Mr JA Hamilton" Florence passed out, Mary reht, Florry, you ht wish to see him alone; perhaps he would prefer it"
"Mary, you have identified yourself with us To my father we must be as one" She extended her hand, and the next moment they stood in the reception-roo with folded ar down into theout a hand to each Florence pressed her lips to the one she held, and exclailad I am to see you!"
"Glad to see me! You did not receive my letters then?"
"Yes, I did, but are their contents and pleasure atyou incompatible?"
He made no reply, and then Mary said, in a low, trereat injury, and you must make me all the reparation in your power You said, in your letter to Florry, that you did not think I would wish to go with you Oh, uncle! you do not, cannot believe rateful, so devoid of love as to wish, under any circumstances, to be separated from you Now ease my heart, and say I may share your new home I should be very miserable away from you"
An expression of pleasure passed over his face, but again the brow darkened
"Mary! Florence is my child--ht to drag you with es that will be afforded, by your uncle's wealth, of the social position you may one day attain"