reserve which usually characterized him hid a fund of brilliant humor,
which would occasionally, and often unexpectedly, flash out in some
quick retort or witty jest; nor was there ever wanting that indefinable
attraction which is the special charm of Erin's sons and daughters all
the world over.

Even Cuthbert Aston was not proof against that charm, although in a
sense he and Bernard were rivals. For it must have been as evident to
Violet Rossall as it was to all onlookers that both Murray and Aston
sought her company in preference to that of any other maiden of their
acquaintance; which of the two was preferred by her was not so evident,
since she seemed to favor both alike.

Violet was, indeed, the center of attraction for all the unattached
males of her particular set. For one reason, she was undeniably
beautiful. An oval face, creamy complexion, large, changeful gray
eyes, abundant hair of bright chestnut hue, a slim and graceful
figure--these were but the half of her charms; there was beauty in her
ever-changing expression, and beauty, above all, in that radiant,
winning smile, apart from all loveliness of form or feature. She was
so undeniably clever, too. She had passed through school and college
with flying colors, carrying off one distinction after another; now she
held a prominent position as teacher in a secondary school, with the
certain prospect of advancement in course of time to spheres of higher
responsibility and social position. Violet, therefore, was well
pleased with her lot, and felt, it may be taken for granted, little
anxiety about her future.

As regards a life-partner, were she disposed to relinquish the chance
of future honors for present ease and happiness, there were many