Ruth then produced the different publishers' offers she had received for her book, and handed them to Mr. Walter. "Well," said he, with a gratified smile, "I am not at all surprised; but what are you going to reply?" "Here is my answer," said Ruth, "_i. e._ provided your judgment endorses it. I am a novice in such matters, you know, but I cannot help thinking, Mr. Walter, that my book will be a success. You will see that I have acted upon that impression, and refused to sell my copyright." "You don't approve it?" said she, looking a little confused, as Mr. Walter bent his keen eyes on her, without replying. "But I do though," said he; "I was only thinking how excellent a substitute strong common-sense may be for experience. Your answer is brief, concise, sagacious, and business-like; I endorse it unhesitatingly. It is just what I should have advised you to write. You are correct in thinking that your book will be popular, and wise in keeping the copyright in your own hands. In how incredibly short a time you have gained a literary reputation, Floy." "Yes," answered Ruth, smiling, "it is all like a dream to me;" and then the smile faded away, and she shuddered involuntarily as the recollection of all her struggles and sufferings came vividly up to her remembrance. Swiftly the hours fled away as Mr. Walter, with a brother's freedom, questioned Ruth as to her past life and drew from her the details of her eventful history. "Thank God, the morning dawneth," said he in a subdued tone, as he pressed Ruth's hand, and bade her a parting good-night. Ruth closed the door upon Mr. Walter's retreating figure, and sat down to peruse the following letters, which had been sent her to Mr. Walter's care, at the Household Messenger office. "MRS. OR MISS 'FLOY:' "Permit me to address you on a subject which lies near my heart, which is, in fact, a subject of pecuniary importance to the person now addressing you. My story is to me a painful one; it would doubtless interest you; were it written and published, it would be a thrilling tale.