and her eyes grew brighter. "You were not neglected on account of you attractive style of dress?" "Judging from the attentions I received, it must have been very attractive. A novelty, perhaps. You understand human nature better than I do, aunt Helen." "Was it the plainest in the room?" "It was plainer than that of half a dozen ladies old enough to have grandchildren." The aunt smiled. "Then it has not hurt your prospects?" The question was in jest; but aunt Helen saw instantly into the heart of her niece. For a moment their eyes lingered in each other; then Alice looked down upon the floor. "No it has not hurt my prospects." The answer was in a softer voice, and then followed a long-drawn inspiration, succeeded by the faintest of sighs. A visit from Mr. Benton, on the next evening, removed all doubt from the dress question, if any remained. XIII. COFFEE vs. BRANDY. "WE shall have to give them a wedding party," said Mrs. Eldridge to her husband. Mr. Eldridge assented. "They will be home to-morrow, and I think of sending out of invitations for Thursday." "As you like about that," replied Mr. Eldridge. "The trouble will be