to be there, that he might keep the more careful and constant watch
and ward over his "little friend." Thoroughly convinced of the
vileness of the wretch who had won her unsuspicious heart, he could
scarce brook the thought of leaving her alone with him, or of seeing
him draw close to her side, touch her hand, or look into the soft,
sweet eyes so full of purity and innocence. Yet these things no one
but her father might forbid, and Mr. Travilla would not force his
companionship upon Elsie when he saw or felt that it was distasteful
to her. The lovers were frequently left to themselves in the parlor or
upon the porch, though the friendly guardian, dreading he hardly knew
what, took care always to be within call.

Elsie longed for, yet dreaded her father's coming. She knew he would
not delay one moment longer than necessary after receiving their
letters, yet he reached Lansdale almost a day sooner than she expected
him.

Sitting alone in her room, she heard his voice and step in the hall
below. She flew down to meet him.

"Oh, papa, dear, dear papa!"

"My darling, precious child!" And her arms were about his neck, his
straining her to his heart. The next moment she lifted her face, and
her eyes sought his with a wistful, pleading, questioning look. He
drew her into the sitting-room, and Miss Stanhope closed the door,
leaving them alone.

"My darling," he said, "you must give him up; he is utterly unworthy
of you."