It was evening of that day. A happy, jolly, bright party was congregated in the private parlor of the executive mansion. In the corner, by the great mirror, sat Junius Cobb and Marie Colchis, his eyes drinking in the beauty of her being, and his thoughts wrapped in a contemplation of her grace and loveliness. On the sofa, across from them, sat Hugh and Marie Hathaway; Lester was alone in a big arm-chair near the window, while Mollie stood in the center of the room under the electric lights, bright, radiant and vivacious. "Three spooney couples!" she cried. "No; I mean two and a half--and you are the half, Lester," slyly turning her head toward him. "Six hearts beating as one; all in unison, but none engaged. He is coming, papa is coming; and I advise some young gentlemen whom I could name to step boldly to the front and ask--well, I think I'll say no more, but I pity you. Papa holds his daughters in an iron fist," and she clenched her little hand to emphasize her words. A moment later and the President and his wife entered the room, and all arose to meet them. "Be seated, my children," he kindly said. "For the first time in my life I feel that I have three beautiful daughters and three noble sons. I have asked you to meet me here that I might bring complete happiness to three pairs of loving hearts. I know all your secrets, dear children; everything is known to me." He paused. An expression of surprise came over the face of Hugh, while anxiety was depicted in Lester's countenance. Marie Colchis turned her eyes upon the speaker, but said nothing. As for Cobb, he thought it all quite natural, as, no doubt, Marie had told her uncle of his proposal. "I will not keep you long in suspense. You, Lester," and he turned toward him. "Love my daughter. You have asked for her hand more than once. I know she returns that love; and as her happiness is next my heart, I will not bring sorrow to her by refusing your request." He stepped forward, and took the hand of Mollie, whose cheeks were red with blushes, and led her to where Lester stood, having risen from his chair. "Lester, take her; she is yours. Be a good, kind husband to her, is all I ask." Lester took the fair girl in his arms, and imprinted the first lawful kiss upon her lips. "And now," continued Mr. Craft, "as two hearts are thus made happy, let me seek another pair. Hugh; stand up, my son." Hugh arose, gently raising Marie Hathaway from the sofa, and moved toward his father. "Father," he said, "here is another pair." Marie hung her head in confusion, but Hugh was bold and fearless. "I know all about you two also," said Mr. Craft, smiling. "I am more than satisfied to receive such a daughter as you, Marie Hathaway." The girl started as her name was pronounced, and a guilty blush mantled her cheek at the thought of the deception she had practiced upon this good old man. "Unto my son I give you, if it be your wish that he should become your husband."