some points which present themselves to me, I become _quite_
definite?'

'Not by any means, Mr. Gray. I am very anxious to hear everything
that you have to say.'

'Well, Aster, I do not admire your friend, Mr. Ham. I think he is a
coarse snob; and under an exterior of brusque frankness I believe he
is deceitful and--cowardly. I should consider your union with such a
person a monstrous sacrifice.'

'Would you have me wait until some man who reaches your ideal came
and asked father for my hand? Or would you have me advertise in
William Lyon Mackenzie's newspaper. Or, still another and final
alternative, would you have me bloom in this sweet place all my days
in celibacy?'

'I simply would not have you marry that person, Ham.'

'No other definite wish with respect to me?' Her head was bowed now,
and her mischievous, upward glance was very fascinating.

'I have; but I should prefer for the present to keep it to myself.'




CHAPTER II.

A GATHERING STORM.