He had expected some simple melody, passably performed. She had told him, in her modest way, that she had given some attention to music, but he had not imagined that she was as proficient as this, and he could not understand how she had kept up her practice, with no instruction, and no permission to use the piano at home. He did not know of that hour at noon, nor the odd minutes, when other girls were chattering away at recess time, that Star had diligently given to this science which she so dearly loved. He was no less astounded during the reading of her essay. When it was announced, she came quietly forward with graceful self-possession, and unfolding the roll of manuscript which she carried in her hand, read in sweet, yet clear tones, a production which held her listeners spell-bound from beginning to end. She must have woven something of her own heart history into it, he thought, for two or three times the tears welled unbidden to his eyes at the pathos which those smoothly rounded sentences contained. It seemed as if Star’s efforts were more highly appreciated than any other portion of the exercises. Even the valedictory, from a member of the senior class, although well written and to the point, was not listened to with such breathless attention. At the conclusion of the programme, the diplomas were awarded to the graduating class, and then the professor said he would read the names of those who had passed their examination and were to be promoted from the other classes. There were two young ladies, he said, who were entitled to a double promotion, having accomplished the work of a year in about six months, which was, to say the least, a very unusual and laudable circumstance. The names of those entitled to this were Miss Stella Gladstone and Miss Grace Turnbull, and they would, upon the beginning of the fall term, take their places in the senior class. As the people flocked by him out of the hall, Mr. Richards heard Star’s praises on every side, and inwardly vowed that the girl should have every chance in the future. He made his way toward the platform, intending to speak with and congratulate her upon her success; but just before he reached her another gentleman approached her, and after shaking hands in the most cordial manner with her, gave her a small package, and bending down, whispered a few words in her ear. He could not understand the expression of mingled surprise and joy which for a moment absolutely glorified her fair face as she received the package; then the tears sprang to her eyes, as, with tremulous lips, she appeared to be thanking the giver. The gentleman chatted a few moments longer with her, then put out his hand for the roll of manuscript which she still held, while he smilingly asked her for it. Star hesitated about giving it to him, while a lovely color suffused her face; then, with a shy movement, she laid it in his palm.