shares of Riverland stock, the property of Mrs. Lloyd here, which I
presumed you would like to buy."

"You were not out of the way in your presumption. Have you made the
sale?"

"Oh yes. Not finding you in, I saw Mr. Jones, who took the shares at
a word."

"At what price?"

"Eighty-two. I have his note at sixty days for the amount, which you
know is perfectly good."

"Mrs. Lloyd need not have the slightest hesitation in accepting it;
and if she wishes the money, I can get it cashed for her." Then
rising, he added, "I will leave you now, Mrs. Lloyd, as business
requires both your attention and mine. To-morrow I will do myself
the pleasure to call on you again."

As Mr. Smith bowed himself out, he noticed, more particularly, the
beautiful smile of the elder daughter, whose eyes, humid from
grateful emotion, were fixed on his countenance with an expression
that haunted him for hours afterward.

"I hardly think that paid," was the remark of Mr. Jones, on meeting
Mr. Smith some hours afterward.

"What?" asked the latter.