But, seriously, how is Mrs.Hamilton's health ?" "She is very low, and cannot possibly live long," was the reply.
Here there was a pause in the conversation, during which we will take the opportunity of introducing more fully to our readers the estimable Mrs.Carter and her daughter.

Mr.Hamilton was right when he associated the resigned widow with his old flame, Luella Blackburn, whom be had never seriously thought of marrying, though by way of pastime he had frequently teased, tormented, and flattered her.

Luella was ambitious, artful, and designing.

Wealth and position was the goal at which she aimed.

Both of these she knew Ernest Hamilton possessed, and she had felt greatly pleased at his evident preference.