trouble. Why, Ishmael, we always put up such a box as this for
Walter when he leaves us. And do you think that mamma or I would
make any difference between you?"

"You have always been a dear--yes, the dearest of sisters to me! and
some day, Bee--" He stopped, and looked around. The maids were at
some distance, but still he felt that the family storeroom was not
exactly the place to say what was on his heart for her, so he
whispered the question:

"How long will you be engaged here, dear Bee?"

"Until tea time. It will take me quite as long as that to get
through what I have to do."

"And then, Bee?"

"Then I shall be at leisure to pass this last evening with you,
Ishmael," answered Bee, meeting his wish with the frankness of pure
affection.

"And will you walk with me in the garden after tea? It will be our
last stroll together there," he said rather sadly.

"Yes; I will walk with you, Ishmael. The garden is lovely just at
sunset."

"Thank you, dearest Bee. Ah! how many times a day I have occasion to
speak these words!"