University of Virginia Library

TEN YEARS AFTER.

SHE was at a party. He had not yet arrived; but she was momentarily expecting him. The hum of conversation through the room had no significance for her: all her faculties were bent on the front-door. Every time it opened, at every step in the hall-way, she would start, while her face would flush, and her eyes light up with feverish expectation. Then the color would go back from her cheeks, her eyes would dull, and her heart sink, when another than he came into the room. Finally he arrived, and took a seat by her; and she leaned over his shoulder, and joyously murmured,—

"My darling, my darling!" She was too happy to say aught more.

Ten years later, and she again waits: it is in their own home now. His step is on the stoop; he opens the door. She springs quickly to the hall.

"Clean your feet!" she screams.

Ten years ago they were not married: now they are.