'Then you do not love me,' said Hiram, in a tone not quite amiable. 'You know better,' exclaimed Sarah, her eyes flashing, and all the spirit of her father beaming forth. 'Hiram Meeker, you know better!' She was superb in her passion. Something besides affection shone forth now, and Hiram was led captive by _it_. 'Then shall I stay,' he said resolutely. 'Take me or not, Sarah, I stay, too.' * * * * * Mr. Burns was not altogether surprised at the announcement which awaited him on going home that day to dinner. He had seen for some time that his daughter was much interested, and he thought Hiram equally so. It is true the old feeling continued, and there were times when, it appeared to break forth stronger than ever. Mr. Burns had made up his mind that it was doing Hiram great injustice to yield to it, since the young man was untiring in the discharge of his duties, and also most effective. So he had endeavored to accustom himself to think of the event of his daughter's engagement with Hiram as very probable. What could possibly be urged against it? Hiram was of respectable family, possessed of extraordinary business ability, bearing an irreproachable character, really without a fault that could be indicated, and a consistent member of the church. Yes, that was so. And, looking it over carefully, Mr. Burns used frequently to admit to himself that it _was_ so. What then? Why, then Joel Burns would sigh and feel heaviness of heart, he scarcely knew why, and think to himself that there could remain for him no happiness should Sarah marry Meeker. Then he would ask himself, how his wife would have liked Meeker. He did not think she would have liked him. Nevertheless, as I have said, Mr. Barns decided the event was coming, and that he could not say nay. And he did not say nay. He said very little; but when Sarah threw herself in her father's arms, and he kissed her forehead, his heart was nigh to bursting. He restrained his emotion, though. * * * * * 'We are never to leave you, father. You know that, don't you?' 'My child, no one knows the future; but I am happy that you will live with me.' Hiram said nothing. Already his old caution was returning. * * * * *