at him, understanding his appeal and taking in the whole situation at a glance. “How glad I am!" she said smiling as she bent her head to his, speaking in an audible whisper. "Dear Stella! she has deserved her happiness. This is the marriage of all others for her! How wise she has been to see it! think So, Precious Prince ?" Don't you "Yes, Little Love. I have always wished it -always desired it," said Mr. Branscombe with graceful acquiescence, stately and jocund in one. He turned to Cyril, and, just as in olden times, held out two long white scented fingers, with their filbert-shaped nails so delicately pared and daintily polished. He did not even rise from his seat. The Son of the House was beyond these small formalities, and paternal familiarity was the better welcome. "Ah, Cyril, dear boy, good morning!" he said, exactly as if he had seen him over night, with no excitement, no surprise, no questioning as to how or why he had so suddenly appeared. 66 Jones, a plate for Mr. Ponsonby. What will you have, my dear boy? I can recommend those kidneys à la Soubise; and young appetites are generally sharp-set. By the way, first let me present you to Mrs. Branscombe. I think you knew her in olden days ?" 66 Yes," said Cyril, shaking hands with Hortensia; but for the life of him he could not be cordial either to her or to her husband. "This is the only change you will find in your old home," continued Mr. Branscombe airily. "All else just the same! Stella as good a girl as ever and as devoted to you; I, as much your friend and as glad to see you as before; my wife your firm and constant champion: only a year has passed since last we met a year which has left us all, I trust, with an added increment of wisdom, happiness and health. 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