And Harold strongly coveted an occasional monopoly of the sweet girl's society.

He had come to Viamede with a purpose entirely unsuspected by her or her apparently vigilant guardian.
He should perhaps, have confided his secret to Mr.Dinsmore first, but his heart failed him; and "what would be the use ?" he asked himself, "if Elsie is not willing?
Ah, if I could but be alone with her for an hour!" The coveted opportunity offered itself at last, quite unexpectedly.

Coming out upon the veranda one afternoon, he saw Elsie sitting alone under a tree far down on the lawn.

He hastened towards her.
"I am glad to see you," she said, looking up with a smile and making room for him on the seat by her side.

"You see I am 'lone and lorn,' Mr.Durand having carried off papa to look at some new improvement in his sugar-house machinery." "Ah! and when will your father return ?" "In about an hour, I presume.