for the sea-shore. Can you give me three seats there after their
departure?"

"Certainly; put you down right alongside of Miss Burton."

"Perhaps Van Berg feels that he has the first claim to so good a
position?"

"No, Stanton, I shall not place a straw in your way."

"You never were a man of straw, Van. If I were seeking more than
to enjoy the society of this young lady, who seems to be embodied
sunshine, I would be sorry to have you place yourself in the way."

"Sunshine brought to a focus kindles even green wood," remarked
Van Berg, with a significant nod at his friend.

"Well," said Mr. Burleigh, rising, "if I had not found my mate, I'd
be a burr that that little woman wouldn't get rid of very easily.
Good-night, gentlemen. I'll give either one of you my blessing."

"Good-night, Van," said Stanton, also. "I'm not going to stay and
listen to your absurd predictions. Neither shall I permit you to
enjoy all by yourself the delicate wine of that woman's wit. When
good things are passing round, I propose to have my share. My
presence can't hurt your prospects."

"And if it did, Ik, do you think me such a churl as to try to crowd
you away?"