"This is a new reign," said Egremont, "perhaps it is a new
era."

"I think so," said the younger stranger.

"I hope so," said the elder one.

"Well, society may be in its infancy," said Egremont slightly
smiling; "but, say what you like, our Queen reigns over the
greatest nation that ever existed."

"Which nation?" asked the younger stranger, "for she reigns
over two."

The stranger paused; Egremont was silent, but looked
inquiringly.

"Yes," resumed the younger stranger after a moment's interval.
"Two nations; between whom there is no intercourse and no
sympathy; who are as ignorant of each other's habits,
thoughts, and feelings, as if they were dwellers in different
zones, or inhabitants of different planets; who are formed by
a different breeding, are fed by a different food, are ordered
by different manners, and are not governed by the same laws."

"You speak of--" said Egremont, hesitatingly.

"THE RICH AND THE POOR."

At this moment a sudden flush of rosy light, suffusing the