The tender words of her father, as well as the ominous ones, "I have
something to tell you," startled Leah, and caused the chords of love
and fear to vibrate wildly within her bosom. Yet she concealed her
deeper feelings, and sang-beautifully, bravely, sweetly-the tender,
ravishing love-ditty which she knew was her father's favorite. The
melody died away, the chords relaxed and hushed their sweetness, and
Leah turned toward her father, awaiting the words of commendation
that he always awarded to her performances. But he was silent.
Seated upon a divan near by, Mr. Mordecai presented a striking
appearance, which Leah at once observed. He was attired in his
crimson morning-gown, adorned with golden bordering, and wore a
becoming scarlet cap carelessly adjusted upon his head; a golden
tassel hung from the cap beside the thoughtful face, and the
half-snowy beard which spread like a silken fringe upon his bosom.
His head was half-averted, and the sharp black eyes seemed to rest
immovably upon some central figure on the luxurious tapestry. He was
so absorbed that he heeded not the cessation of the music, nor was
he aroused from his abstraction till Leah seated herself beside him
and said:

"Now, father, I am ready to hear you."

"Forgive me, daughter, if I seem unmindful of your charming song;
but thoughts for your welfare filled my reverie."

"What thoughts, father?" Leah asked fearfully.

"Well, listen to me. I have planned for you, my daughter, a most
delightful and profitable journey. Assured that you possess musical
talent of the highest order, I desire that talent to be most highly