I am at a loss to understand why you have not found a mate before this." "Ah, none so blind as those that won't see!" returned Keith with a slight laugh; then changed the subject of conversation by asking a question in regard to the plans of the young couple expecting to be united on the morrow.
Captain Raymond answered the query.

A moment's silence followed; then Keith, turning to Dick, said: "I presume you and I are of about the same age, doctor ?" "Quite likely; and confirmed bachelors, both of us, it would seem," was the nonchalant rejoinder.

"I am some years older than Cousin Vi." "Not too old for reformation, however," remarked Captain Raymond pleasantly.

"And let me assure you that a wife--such as mine, for instance--is a very great blessing; doubling the happiness of life." "I don't doubt it, sir," said Dick; "but such an one is not to be picked up every day." "No, certainly not.

I have always felt myself strangely fortunate in securing so great a treasure." "As you well may," remarked Keith pleasantly; "yet your good fortune has been largely owing to your undoubted worthiness of it, Raymond." "In which opinion I agree with you heartily, Cousin Donald," responded Violet's sweet voice close at hand, taking them by surprise, for, in the earnestness of their talk they had not perceived the sound of her light approaching footsteps.