way, let me whisper a word of comfort in your ear. I heard her say
that she didn't believe in any thing but first love; and, as you are
known to have had half a dozen sweethearts, more or less, and to
have broken the hearts of two or three young ladies, the probability
is, that you won't be able to add her to tie number of your lady
loves."

All this was mere jesting; but the words, though uttered in jest,
fell upon the ears of Edwin Florence with all the force of truth.

"Guilty, on your own acknowledgment," said the friend, seeing the
effect of his words. "Better always to act fairly in these matters
of the heart, Florence. If we sow the wind, we will be pretty sure
to reap the whirlwind. But come; let me take you down to the
Tremont, and introduce you to Colonel Richards. I know he will be
glad to make your acquaintance, and will, most probably, give you an
invitation to go home with him and spend a week. You can then make
all fair with his pretty niece."

"I have no wish to make his acquaintance just at this time,"
returned Florence; "nor do I suppose he cares about making mine,
particularly after the high opinion you gave him of my character."

"Nonsense, Edwin! You don't suppose I said that to him. Can't you
take a joke?"

"Oh, yes; I can take a joke."

"Take that as one, then. Colonel Richards did ask for you, however;
and said that he would like to meet you. He was serious. So come