have said so on that memorable evening in the long ago?






CHAPTER XXIII.





NIGHT gathered around the Queen City with dark and sombre fold,
after the chilly October day previous to the one appointed for Leah
Mordecai's departure for Europe-a night whose ominous gloom seemed
to pervade the innermost apartment of the banker's home. It was late
before Mr. Mordecai could spare his daughter from his presence, and
give the good-night kiss, his usual benediction before they
separated for slumber. Even the wily Rebecca said good night now in
a tender tone, and gave Leah a gracious smile as she ascended the
stairs for the last time. "It is the last," thought she, "for many a
long day, maybe forever, and I can smile in sincerity. Once gone,
I'll see to it that she never comes again. Aha! I am happy now, and
can smile in joy and truth."

Once more within her quiet chamber, Leah locked the door and stood a
moment with frightened face gazing furtively around the room. All
was silent. The beating of her own wild heart was all the sound she
heard. Then sinking down from actual weakness, she sat a moment as