pre-eminent charm.

"But enough of that phase of the question. There need be no failure in
my dream, however probable failure may be in reality. Let me imagine
that in her lovely face I may detect the slight curiosity inspired by
a stranger passing into interest. She will be shy and reserved at
first; but as the delicious sense of being understood and admired
gains mastery, her thoughts will gradually reveal her heart like the
opening petals of a rose, and I can reverently gaze upon the rich
treasures of which she is the unconscious possessor, and which I may
win without impoverishing her.

"Her ready laugh, clear and mellow as the robin's song that woke me
this morning, will be the index of an unfailing spring of
mirthfulness--of that breezy, piquant, laughing philosophy which gives
to some women an indescribable charm, enabling them to render gloom
and despondency rare inmates of the home over which they preside. When
I recall what dark depths of perplexity and trouble my mother often
hid with her light laugh, I remember that I have never yet had a
chance even to approach her in heroism. In my dream, at least, I can
give to my wife my mother's laugh and courage; and surely Nature, who
has endowed yonder maiden with so much beauty, has also bestowed every
suitable accompaniment. Wherefore I shall discover in her eyes
treasures of sunshine that shall light my home on stormy days and
winter nights.

"As I vary our theme of talk from bright to sad experiences, I shall
catch a glimpse of that without which the world would become a desert
--woman's sympathy. Possibly I may venture to suggest my own need, and
emphasize it by a reference to Holy Writ. That would be appropriate in