character that denials were not considered as sufficient excuse for
delinquency on the part of any favored with invitations, and, in
consequence, all made a point of being in readiness.

A bright Saturday morning had been arranged for one of those
expeditions. April showers had already been the means of bringing forth
flowers (if not May flowers), only to be found by the penetrating eyes
of "Trapper Johnnie," as some of the more mischievous urchins had dared
to designate their leader.

When, on the auspicious moment, at the marshalling of the clan, two had
dared to break the rules, so strictly laid down, surprise was
momentarily visible on many faces.

Lady Rosamond, the next in importance to Johnnie, had pleaded inability
to attend, with a desire to retain her friend and companion. There was
something in the pleading and beautiful eyes of Lady Rosamond that drove
vexation at a respectful distance, and welcomed, in its stead, a feeling
akin to sympathy within the heart of the manly boy. True chivalric
dignity asserted itself in every form when necessity demanded. Her
ladyship instantly received permission to remain, with a generous grace
that made Johnnie a true hero in the estimation of his fair suppliant.

"Accept this favor, Sir Knight, as a token of the sincerity of your
lady," said Lady Rosamond, stepping forward with a knot of pale blue
silk in her hand.

With the brave gallantry of a Douglas, our hero knelt at the feet of her
ladyship, and, receiving the favor, in graceful recognition kissed the
fair hand that placed it there.