many pleasant hours with her, until my steps were stayed upon the
 bank of the stream whose waters had now no music to my ears. I had
 heretofore been unconscious of the hopes that had gained access to my
 heart. Day by day I had, as it were, allowed my purposes to slumber.
 Her charms had bound me a willing captive, and all unwittingly I had
 cast aside thoughts of the future, and forgotten that the life of
 inaction in which I was indulging could not last. I had found ample joy
 and occupation in watching the play of her expressive features, and in
 listening to the words that came from her lips. After my first few
 hours of astonishment and wonder at the discovery of my stolen ring
 upon her hand, I had ceased, even when alone, to dwell upon the mystery
 connected with it. Now I was brought back to a remembrance of all I had
 vowed to do as I lay ill and suffering in the rude log cabin of the
 settler. It was long before my calmness returned, and my heart ceased
 to beat wildly. The afternoon had waned as I turned back towards the
 house and friends I had so abruptly left. It was in a more collected
 frame of mind that I ascended the steps, and entered the parlor. I am
 sure that, on encountering those there assembled, not the quiver of a
 muscle betrayed the agitation I felt. Helen was half-reclining upon
 a sofa, and leaning upon its back was the form of a tall and rather
 slightly-built man. She started up as I entered. Could it be that a
 brighter light beamed in her eyes as they encountered mine? I knew not,
 for the judge, who was seated near, was prompt to rise also, and said,--

 "'Mr. Palmer, we are glad of your return. Both Helen and myself were
 beginning to fear you had been spirited away. Allow me to make you
 acquainted with Doctor Wentworth. Doctor Wentworth, Mr. Palmer, our
 guest. I trust that you will learn to value the hour that brings you
 together.'

 "I looked the physician full in the face, as I took his hand. The sun,
 streaming in through the western windows, fell full upon his feature