All in a garden fair; the simple story of three boys ... - University Library

ALL AV A GARDEN FAIR. 261
to-morrow morning, so that she will have it in
the forenoon, and have time to think of her
answer/
* But neither of us,' said Allen, ' must go to
the Cottage till an answer is received.'
That night Will passed in watchfulness,
because he distrusted the strength of the frater-
nal bond. Would the yearning which had of
late possessed him so strongly, to take Claire in
his arms and keep her there, cease, even if she
were to choose Allen ?
His rival slept soundly after thinking how
the situation would fall into \erse, and fitting
some beautiful thoughts which could be put on
paper when he found time.
Next morning they met Tommy at the
station. They observed that he was fidgety in
manner, as if he had something to communicate.
He generally went first class, as a Partner
should ; but today he g(^t into a third-class
carriage with them.
' I've got to tell you fellows something,' he
said, with a very crimson blush.