The Girl Behind The Mask

ne, though no one could have explained how or why. Nothing could be more respecting and retiring than her manners. She was devoted to Emily, who soon adored her, and was only happy when in her

ctful deference and the graceful little attentions she paid him in a frank and artless way, very winning to the lonely old man. The very servants liked her; and inste

o themselves. Both watched her covertly yet found no shortcoming anywhere. Meek, modest, faithful, and invariably

ading, or cheerful chat which made the evenings so merry. Lucy at first was only too glad to have her cousin to herself, and he too lazy to care what went on around him. But presently he wearied of her company, for she was not a brilliant girl, and possessed few of those winning arts which char

l into a habit of strolling out upon the terrace of an evening, and amusing himself by passing and repassing the window of Emily's room, catching glimpses

said one evening, as he came back from what h

claimed his cou

d get Oliver his commission, o

o you

y to do it. That girl has bewitched him, and he will make

irtation. These persons always do, t

ost attractive friendliness with a quiet dignity that captivates the boy. I've been watching them, and there he is, devouring her with his eyes, while she reads a fascinating novel in the most fascinating style. Emily

s face. The change became him, for it showed what he might be, making one regret still more what he was

ow?" sh

ment to look at Oliver, and heard the following flattering remarks. Mamma is gone, and O

not here,

e drawing room readily enoug

t him with a little shake of the head, for he was f

t Emily. 'Dylan likes your voice so much, an

e,' said Marie, w

zy, but he wan

like it.' And she shrugged her shoulders

,' began stupid little Emily. 'Don't be shy or prou

ittle Miss Anderson, not to amuse Mr.

not Dylan? Are you afr

said, in that peculiar tone of hers, 'I cannot

u be, if you ever saw him angry,' A

l, with an air of surprise. Here Oliver broke into a fit o

,' as you say, for my aunt is as deluded about her as Oliver and Emily, and she really does get the child along splendidly. Dispatch Oliver,

e asked smiling, as if ashame

lf?" And a shade of anxi

ith her music," he added, moving down the terrac

said, abruptly, "Does anyone want me to get them

carelessly, though usually his brother

ut I have to ask Mamma first."

ou with a letter

Asked Oliv