Paul offered to show his visitor around the city; and they strolled for an hour or two through the principal streets, conversing of improvements to be made; handsome public buildings to be erected; etc., etc. They were passing a dry goods store when a lady, elegantly dressed, came out, to whom Paul bowed with great empressement, as the French say. Edward thought the countenance familiar; and glanced in his companion's face, wondering he did not speak of her. Paul's lip was curled into a pleasant smile, as if some agreeable memories had been stirred; but he presently remarked in continuation of their former conversation: "Chicago is destined to be a great city, one of the greatest in the country." They returned to find Gertrude impatiently awaiting her brother. At her earnest request Marion had consented to send Bridget with a note of explanation to her mother; and remain through the evening. "A very wise arrangement, little one," observed Paul, playfully tapping his wife's cheek. The tea table presented an inviting appearance, glistening with silver, glass and china. There was a plate of crisp rolls, a platter covered with thin shavings of ham, a glass of jelly and a basket of cake. "If Hannah were only here, I should be too happy," cried Gertrude, looking smilingly around among her guests. Paul was in unusual spirits. He had always liked Edward; and was more relieved than he could express that his first visit was passing off so agreeably. He secretly thanked Gerty again and again for urging Marion to stay; for it would not be polite to leave his brother alone, and an engagement for the evening awaited him. After tea Marion tarried a few minutes in the dining room with Bridget to show her how to wipe the silver; and to give particular directions for breakfast, which the girl promised faithfully to remember; and then at Edward's request accompanied herself in some simple songs. At the end of one of them, Paul started to his feet exclaiming, "Your music, Miss Gilbert is so charming that I quite forgot an engagement I was so unfortunate as to make before I knew I should be honored with company. I shall shorten it as much as possible and shall hope to find you here on my return."