While Ruth was thus absorbed in her new occupation, and the spring was wearing away, Philip and his friends were still detained at the Southern Hotel.

The great contractors had concluded their business with the state and railroad officials and with the lesser contractors, and departed for the East.

But the serious illness of one of the engineers kept Philip and Henry in the city and occupied in alternate watchings.
Philip wrote to Ruth of the new acquaintance they had made, Col.

Sellers, an enthusiastic and hospitable gentleman, very much interested in the development of the country, and in their success.

They had not had an opportunity to visit at his place "up in the country" yet, but the Colonel often dined with them, and in confidence, confided to them his projects, and seemed to take a great liking to them, especially to his friend Harry.