offended at something," said she, as she led the way into a cozy
little sitting-room, where a cheerful wood fire was blazing on the
nicely painted hearth. "Do sit down and make yourself as comfortable
as you can, on such poor accommodations. I have just finished dinner
but will order some for you."

"No, no," exclaimed Mrs. Livingstone, "I dined at Mr.
Douglass's--thank you."

"Ah, indeed," returned Mrs. Atkins, feeling a good deal relieved, for
to tell the truth, her larder, as was often the case, was rather
empty. "Dined at Mr. Douglass's! Of course, then, nothing which I
could offer you could be acceptable, after one of his sumptuous
meals. I suppose Nellie brought out all her mother's old silver, and
made quite a display. It's a wonder to me how they hold their heads
so high, and folks notice them as they do, for between you and me, I
shouldn't be surprised to hear of his failing any minute."

"Is it possible?" said Mrs. Livingstone.

"Why, yes," returned Mrs. Atkins. "There's nothing to prevent it,
they say, except a moneyed marriage on the part of Nellie, who seems
to be doing her best."

"Has she any particular one in view?" asked Mrs. Livingstone, and
Mrs. Atkins, aware of Mrs. Livingstone's aversion to the match,
replied, "Why, you know she tried to get your son----"

"But didn't succeed," interrupted Mrs. Livingstone.