Lord Arleigh was shown into the dining-room at Winiston House, and stood there impatiently awaiting the Earl of Mountdean.

He came in at last, but the master of Beechgrove barely recognized him, he was so completely changed.

Years seemed to have fallen from him.

His face was radiant with a great glad light.

He held out his hand to his friend.
"Congratulate me," he said; "I am one of the happiest men in the world." "What has happened ?" asked Lord Arleigh, in surprise.
"Follow me," said the earl; and in silence Lord Arleigh obeyed him.
They came to the pretty shaded room, and the earl, entering first, said: "Now, my darling, the hour has come which will repay you for the sorrow of years." Wondering at such words, Lord Arleigh followed his friend.