before, nobody could think any the worse of her for this small inherited weakness. Toward his own family Paul had behaved in a most exemplary manner, affording thereby the strongest proof that though he had risen he was no upstart. The numerous members of his family and the men who had married into it nearly all had to thank him for their advancement or actual support. Some were employed on his estate, others he had trained in his particular branch of agriculture, after which, and with his recommendation, they had found no difficulty in obtaining brilliant positions as stewards or lease-holders of estates, and two of his brothers had appointments on royal domains. He had, therefore, every right to self-congratulation, as having fulfilled all the duties of a model man and citizen far beyond what necessity demanded. For Wilhelm, Paul still retained the affection and friendship of his early days, only that, unconsciously to himself, it had taken on a certain fatherly tone; although there was a difference of but one year between them, there was a touch of protecting consideration and pity about it, such as strong men feel toward a weaker and less perfectly developed creature. The first day Paul left his friend to have a thorough rest, but the next morning early he knocked at his door and asked if he might come in. "Certainly," was the answer, and opening the door at the same moment, Wilhelm appeared fully dressed and ready for inspection. "You have kept up your old habit of early rising--that is right," said Paul, and clapped him on the shoulder. "So have you," returned Wilhelm with a smile. "I--oh, that's different. I am a farmer, and you know the proverb--'The master's eye makes the cattle fat.' But your books don't require to be fed and watered at break of day. As you are ready, come down now, and we can have a chat over breakfast." Malvine met him downstairs with a friendly smile and shake of the hand. This morning she wore a long blue morning gown with gay colored embroidery at the throat and wrists and a little lace cap with blue ribbons. The breakfast was as elaborate as on the day before. "I want to take you over to my place to-day, Wilhelm. We have a shooting party, the weather is lovely, and it will be a nice change for you." "Thanks, Paul, but I would much rather you left me here. I am no sportsman, as you know very well."