C----, or he may be waiting for a definite answer. I think during
the evening we shall certainly hear from him."

But notwithstanding Lucy and her mother lingered up until past
eleven o'clock, the so-anxiously looked for communication was not
received.

All the next day they passed in a state of nervous solicitude and
anxious expectation, but night found them still ignorant as to what
Mr. Burgess had done.

On the next day, unable to bear the suspense any longer, Lucy went
to the store of Mr. Burgess about ten o'clock.

"Have you called upon Mr. C----yet?" she asked, before he had time
to more than bid her a good-morning.

"I was going to do it this moment," replied Mr. Burgess, looking
confused, yet trying to assume a bland and cordial manner.

In spite of her efforts to appear indifferent, the countenance of
Lucy fell and assumed a look of painful disappointment.

"You shall hear from me in an hour," said Mr. Burgess, feeling
strongly condemned for his neglect. "I have had a great many things
on my mind for these two days past, and have been much occupied with
business. I regret exceedingly the delay, but you may rely upon my
attending to it at once. As I said, I was just going out for the
very purpose when you called. Excuse me to your mother, and tell her
that she will certainly hear from me within the next hour. Tell her