her guests; her tall, slender form, so full of dignity, she was the
"observed of all observers." Her winning smile, so dangerous to those
gallants in attendance who had never realized the true sense of
coquetry, was unusually fascinating, and every one who had been honored
by Miss Winnie's notice, pronounced her decidedly the belle of the
season; but as they turned to the gentle creature at her side, their
thoughts gradually assumed a different cast,--unconsciously the mind
wandered to other scenes than are usually of a fashionable evening
entertainment. It were absurd to call her a "belle," for the word seemed
void of expression.

The Sea-flower wore a simple dress of white blonde, with no other
ornament than the band of pearls, which had been the gift of her
well-loved friends. The little star, which was formed by the glittering
of the diamonds through the delicately-wrought pearl, which being the
centre of the collection was worn upon her forehead, sparkling like
tiny drops of dew; and as she glided with unstudied grace among those
who sought to know more of her, she gained the name of "the
gentle star."

It was yet early in the evening. Sauntering along one of the principal
streets were two young men, engaged in conversation. We will listen
awhile, for we may be interested.

"Do you go to Santon's to-night, Delwood?" asked the younger of the two,
who was far less prepossessing in appearance than his companion.

"Umph,--yes," replied the other, in a more reserved tone. "Do you make
one of the number?"