MONA'S APPALLING DISCOVERY.


Mona Montague was very happy throughout that memorable evening as she sat
beside Ray Palmer, and listened to the opera of "Il Trovatore."

The four young people occupied a proscenium box, and made a very
interesting group. Many a glass was turned upon them, many an eye studied
their bright, animated faces, and found the sight almost as entertaining
as the scene being enacted upon the stage.

To Ray Palmer's partial eye the fair girl beside him was the most
beautiful object in the world, for he loved her with all his heart,
and he made up his mind to win her if it were possible.

When the opera was over, the quartet repaired to a fashionable _café_,
where they had a delicious little supper, and spent another happy
half-hour discussing the merits of "Il Trovatore"; then they separated
to go to their homes.

"You have given me great pleasure this evening, Miss Montague," Ray
Palmer remarked, as he lingered for a moment beside her at the door of
Mr. Dinsmore's residence, and loath to bid her good-night.

"Then I am sure the pleasure has been mutual, Mr. Palmer, for I have
enjoyed myself exceedingly," Mona replied, as she lifted her flushed and
smiling face to him.

"You are very kind to give me that assurance," he returned, "and you