At last the front door opened, and she heard his step upon the piazza.

Starting up, she hurried to the window, while at the same moment Mr.Hamilton paused, and raising his eyes saw the white face of his daughter pressed against the window-pane as she looked imploringly after him; but there was not enough of power in a single look to deter him, and, wafting her a kiss, he turned away.

Sadly Margaret watched him until he disappeared down the long hill; then, returning to her couch, she wept bitterly.
Meantime Mrs.Carter, who had been greatly chagrined at the non-appearance of Mr.Hamilton the week before, was now confidently expecting him.

He had not yet asked her to be his wife, and the delay somewhat annoyed both herself and Lenora.
"I declare, mother," said Lenora, "I should suppose you might contrive up something to bring matters to a focus.

I think it's perfectly ridiculous to see two old crones, who ought to be trotting their grandchildren, cooing and simpering away at each other, and all for nothing, too." "Can't you be easy awhile longer ?" asked Mrs.Carter "hasn't he said everything he can say except 'will you marry me ?'" "A very important question, too," returned Lenora; "and I don't know what business you have to expect anything from him until it is asked." "Mr.Hamilton is proud," answered Mrs.Carter--"is afraid of doing anything which might possibly lower him.