Nell of Shorne Mills

"Let me lift you out," he pleaded. "I want to feel you in my arms--once

more to-night!"

She surrendered herself, and, for a moment, her head sank on his

shoulder.

They walked up the hill almost in silence; but every now and then his

hand sought hers, and not in vain.

She looked up at the starlit sky in a kind of wondering amazement. Was

it she?--was it he?--were they really betrothed? Did he really love her?

Oh, how wonderful--wonderful it was! And they said there was no real

happiness in this world.

She could have laughed with the scorn of her full, complete joy!

They entered The Cottage side by side, and were met by Dick, with

half-serious indignation.

"Well, upon my word, for a clear case of desertion, I never----Why

didn't you wait for me? I've got a couple of gulls, and----What's the

matter with you, Nell? You look as if you'd found a threepenny piece."

"Just in time for supper," simpered Mrs. Lorton.

Drake took Nell's hand and led her into the light of the lamp, which

illumined the night and perfumed the day.

"I've brought Nell back, Mrs. Lorton," he said, with the shyness of the

newly engaged man, "and--and she has promised to be my wife."