But thought was too busy in her brain; she was too much excited over the surprising offer made her that morning.

She knew instinctively that Mr.
Lilburn had not given up the hope of securing what he had asked for--that his suit would be renewed at the first opportunity--and what should she--what could she say?
It was not the first offer she had had, but--no other suitor was ever so good, so noble, so--oh, he was everything one could ask or desire (what difference that he was old enough to be her father), but would his sons welcome her advent into the family?
And her own dear ones--sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews--be willing to part with her.

Perhaps not; but surely they could do very well without her and he--the dear old gentleman--ought surely to be considered; if she could make his last days happier and more comfortable--it could not be wrong for her to do so, for the others could be happy without her.

Ah, perhaps they would soon almost forget her.

And there with Elsie Travilla her dear, dearest friend and cousin; how pleasant to live near enough for almost daily intercourse with her! "I will ask for guidance," she finally said half aloud, and, rising, knelt beside her couch, earnestly beseeching her best friend to make her way plain before her face, to lead and guide her all her journey through.
Then, calmed and quieted by casting her burden on the Lord, she lay down again and presently fell into a deep, sweet sleep.