But Bell soon converted Mrs. Marchmont to her way of thinking. Lottie had found Hemstead more interesting than she had expected, and had foolishly and recklessly permitted a mere sentiment for him to develop, which, in her case, would end with the visit, and soon be forgotten in the mad whirl of New York gayety. "But with Mr. Hemstead," concluded Bel, "it will be a very different affair. He is one of the kind that will brood over such a disappointment and wrong to the end of life." So it was settled that Mrs. Marchmont should "speak plainly" to her nephew, and warn him against "Lottie's wiles," as soon as possible. But no opportunity occurred before Monday morning, and then not until Hemstead had received some of the most blissful experiences that he had yet enjoyed. For, immediately after breakfast, all had flocked into the back parlor, where the laden Christmas tree revealed the secrets that had filled the air with mystery during the preceding days. All had been remembered, and Mr. Martell's munificence towards the gallant coachman quite took away his breath. But Hemstead was overwhelmed and troubled at first, when he opened an envelope, and found a check for a thousand dollars, with the words: "We send you this, not in any sense as compensation,--for we know enough of your character to recognize that you would have taken equal risks in behalf of the penniless,--but because we wish to be remembered by you, whom we can never forget. And we only request tint you invest this sum towards your library, so that, in coming years, the thoughts of your favorite authors may remind you of those whose best wishes, sincerest gratitude, and highest esteem Will ever be yours. "(Signed) HERBERT MARTELL, ALICE MARTELL." "Now, Frank, what is the use of putting on such airs?" said Addie. "You surely expected a handsome present from Mr. Martell." "I assure you, I expected nothing of the kind," he replied, a trifle indignantly. "Why should I? As it is, I am doubtful whether I ought to accept it." "Why should I?" Lottie echoed with a merry laugh. "That's like you. But, unless you wish to hurt and wrong sincere friends very much, I advise you to keep it and do as they say. You are so exceedingly proud or humble--which shall I call it?--that I fear you neither expect, nor will take anything from me." "Here is a queer-looking parcel for Frank Hemstead," said Mr. Dimmerly, with his chuckling laugh. With intense delight Lottie saw the student hesitate, and his hand tremble as he slowly began to open it. "It's not a torpedo, or an infernal machine, that you need be in such trepidation," she whispered. "It won't go off." "Is it from you?" "Look and see." It was a sermon holder, of rich, plain morocco without, but within, most elaborately embroidered. Most prominent among the rare and dainty devices was a single oar.