In my uncertainty as to how and when we may meet again, I should like to make you such amends as opportunity allows me.

Ermentrude, will you marry me--now--to-night, before leaving this house ?" A low cry escaped her.

She was no more prepared for this astounding offer than were these others.

"Carleton!" came in a groan from her lips.
"Carleton! Carleton!" the word rising in intensity as thought followed thought and her spirits ran the full gamut of what this proposal on his part meant in past, present and future.

Then she fell silent and they saw the great soul of the woman illumine a countenance always noble, with the light of a purpose altogether lofty.