innocently blank.

"Well," replied he, hesitatingly, and blushing deeply, "perhaps my
thought was that you might be an occasion for Thanksgiving if both
sermon and dinner were wanting."

Again there was a general laugh, but his aunt said, "Frank, Frank,
have you learned to flatter?"

Lottie shot a quick glance of pleased surprise at him, and was
much amused at his evident confusion and flaming cheeks. To be sure
his words were part of the old complimentary tune that she knew
by heart, but his offering was like a flower that had upon it the
morning dew. She recognized his grateful effort to repay her for
supposed kindness, and saw that, though ill at ease in society, he
was not a fool.

"Would it not be better to wait till in possession before keeping
a Thanksgiving?" said De Forrest, satirically.

"Not necessarily," retorted Hemstead, quickly, for the remark was
like the light touch of a spur. "I was grateful for the opportunity
of seeing a fine picture at Cleveland, on my way here, that I never
expect to own."

Lottie smiled. The victim was not helpless. But she turned, and
with a spice of coquetry said, "Still I think you are right, Mr.
De Forrest."

Then she noted that Mr. Hemstead's eyes were dancing with mirth at