Mr. Ross had not seen his intended son-in-law, nor did he know how mercenary were Gertrude's motives. He took it for granted that she would not, of her own free will, consent to marry a man who was not at least agreeable to her, though he certainly thought it odd that she should fancy one over forty years older than herself. He made some inquiries relative to the man's character and circumstances, and learning that he was really very wealthy, and bore a respectable reputation, as the world goes, gave his consent to the match. The preparations went on; dresses and jewels were ordered from Paris, invitations issued to several hundred guests, and the reception rooms of their city residence refurnished for the occasion; money was poured out without stint to provide the wedding feasts and flowers, rich and rare, for the adornment of the house, and the persons of the girls. Gertrude did not seem unhappy, but was in a constant state of excitement, and would not allow herself a moment to think. Ten days before that appointed for the ceremony, the bridegroom arrived in the city, and called upon the family. Mr. Ross did not like his countenance, and wondered more than ever at his daughter's choice. He waited till Mr. Larrabee was gone, then sent for her to come to him in the library. She came, looking surprised and annoyed. "What is it, papa?" she said impatiently. "Please be as brief as you can; because I've a world of things to attend to." "So many that you have not a moment to spare for the father you are going to leave so soon?" he said a little sadly. "Oh, don't remind me of that!" she cried, a sudden change coming over her manner. "I can't bear to think of it!" and creeping up to him, she put her arms around his neck, while a tear trembled in her eye. "Nor I," he said, caressing her; "not even if I knew you were going to be very happy so far away from me; and I fear you are not. Gertrude, do you love that man?" "Why what a question coming from my practical father!" she said, forcing a laugh. "I am choosing for myself, marrying of my own free will; is not that sufficient?" "I tell you candidly, Gertrude," he answered, "I do not like Mr. Larrabee's looks. I cannot think it possible that you can love him, and I beg of you if you do not, to draw back even now at this late hour." "It is too late, papa," she returned, growing cold and hard; "and I do not wish it. Is this all you wanted to say to me?" "Yes," he said, releasing her with a sigh. She glided from the room and he spent the next half hour in pacing slowly back and forth with his head bowed upon his breast. The door bell rang and the servant came in with a card. Mr. Ross glanced at it, read the name with a look of pleased surprise, and said, "Show the gentleman in here." The next moment the two were shaking hands and greeting each other as old and valued friends.