In consequence of this generous gift, a lot of land was purchased, not far from the public school, and the town at a public meeting, called for the purpose, added to the library lot a large field formerly used for pasturage. This was to be fitted up for all sorts of games and athletic sports. Mr. Lambert and his family went to Grantbury, and insisted that the library building be two stories, the upper story to be finished off into a hall for concerts, school exhibitions, etc. The eccentric old gentleman was very angry when it was proposed to name this "Lambert Hall," in token of gratitude to the giver. "I've nothing to do with it," he insisted. "Put it Howard Hall or Angus Hall, if you please. It's nothing to me, any way." "Except that your name stands at the bottom of the check for the cost," replied Marion, with an arch glance in his face. "Things have come to a pretty pass—wedding present—chose that rather than diamonds." He was growling away in the genuine old style, when Geenie made them all laugh heartily by calling out,— "Grandma, did you bring Mr. Regy's wig? He has come back again." CHAPTER XV. OUR INGLESIDE. ESTHER COLE had received two letters, or rather notes, from her husband since the one she wrote him; but now months had passed without a word in answer to her regular weekly letter. Mr. Angus was greatly interested in the young wife who was so patiently enduring her trials, and insisted that she ought to be allowed to follow the dictates of her own conscience in regard to her connection with her husband. Day after day Esther looked for a letter, but looked in vain. At length, pitying her too evident disappointment, Mr. Angus wrote to the chaplain of the prison, making inquiries in regard to the man. The letter, about which he had said nothing, was answered immediately, and contained a slip cut from an Auburn paper. Joseph Cole, with three of the worst prisoners, had escaped from their confinement early one dark night. They had nearly killed a watchman who ran to give notice, and had so far escaped justice. The chaplain added that the criminals had been subsequently traced to New Orleans, where a gang of roughs had been seized for arson and murder. On the trial it was proved that the younger and apparently the most hardened had a number of aliases, but that his real name was Joseph Cole. "My poor, trusting Esther!" exclaimed Marion to her husband, "this will end your faith in your husband's reformation. This will settle the question of your return to him." But greatly to her surprise, and to the surprise of all Esther's friends, though she mourned so deeply over Joseph's sins that her cheeks grew colorless and her eyes looked into yours more wistfully than ever, she yet held fast to her belief that God had power to touch the hardest heart, and that in answer to her importunate prayers He would, in His own good time, lead him to penitence and a godly life.