reckon such ties relationships. Squire Raw-
don lost his son and his two grandsons a year
ago. Perhaps this young man may eventually
stand in their place. The Squire is nearly
eighty years old; he is the last of the English
Rawdons--at least of our branch of it."

"You suppose this Mr. Mostyn may become
Squire of Rawdon Manor?"

"He may, Ruth, but it is not certain.
There is a large mortgage on the Manor."

"Oh!"

Both girls made the ejaculation at the same
moment, and in both voices there was the
same curious tone of speculation. It was a
cry after truth apprehended, but not realized.
Mr. Rawdon remained silent; he was debating
with himself the advisability of further
confidence, but he came quickly to the
conclusion that enough had been told for the
present. Turning to Ethel, he said: "I suppose
girls have a code of honor about their
secrets. Is Dora Denning's `extraordinary
news' shut up in it?"

"Oh, no, father. She is going to be married.
That is all."