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lewis m. grist, Proprietor.! !|,n |nbepenbenf Jfamilg $Jetosj>aper: gat % promotion of fjje political, Social, Agricultural anb Commercial Interests of f|e Sontjj. | TERMS?$3.00 A YEAR, IN ADVANCE. VOL. 24 YORKVILLE, S. C., THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 1878. , s n G ; NO. 81. I JU #?ginal ftorg. For the Yorkville Enquirer. DAISY AY JAY; OR, HOW SHE EXORCISED THE GHOST. BY ELLA. CHAPTER I. A steamer was plowing her solitary way over the waters of the Chesapeake. Old Sol was just in the act of cooling his glowing face in his ocean retreat. The pathway he left was radiant with his departing glory. Rich hues fell therefrom and gilded the quivering waters below. The steamer's foam-covered track caught the tinted light, and divided it into many sparkling gem3?diamonds, opals and rubies. A softly painted cloud floated just over head. To a vivid imagination, the tiny specks of vapor, resting here and there * * ?- -L 4 1???rvAo??n/J lilro ancrpKvi^i upon 11, rillglH nave apppaicu ..ov ?b~. tants, perched thereupon, for the purpose of satisfying that feeliug which the learned ascrihe to them, and term angelic curiosity. Upon the deck of this vessel two young girls are promenading. They are?as might readily be supposed?school girls, and are en route for N?, where they expect to spend Christmas. One is tall and graceful, with gray eyes and glossy, dark hair. This young lady, I shall introduce as Lizzie Arnold. The other is slight and rather fairy like in her appearance, with golden hair, fair complexion, aud just a delicate color suffusing her cheeks, like the pink-tint of a seashell. Large, brilliant black eyes add beauty and character to the face. Daisy May is going home with her friend, Lizzie Arnold, to spend the approaching holidays. "How very pleasant the weather is now? I only trust it may continue thus until after the holidays," said Lizzie. "Yes, it is certainly charming! I must have a sleigh-ride, however, before we return; therefore, snow and a freeze are essential. I am afraid I shall be disappointed." "Prnhahlv not. Daisy, as we some times have very sudden changes in this part of the country." "What time do we arrive at your home?" "We reach N? about seven o'clock in the morniog. You know we live some two miles in the country; so at eight o'clock, I think, we shall breakfast in my own loved home !" exclaimed Lizzie, with animation. They were now joined by Mr. Arnold, Lizzie's father, who wa; their chaperon on this occasion. Suddenly his attention was attracted by a couple just opposite?a youug lady and gentleman. "It seems to me I must have met that gentleman before ; his face is familiar," remarked Mr. Arnold. "He is certainly handsome. Must I 'make eyes' at him, Lizzie?" asked Daisy, in a whisper. ^ Just then the stranger crossed over to where Mr. Arnold stood, aud greeted him very cordially. "Mr. Morton, to be sure!" exclaimed Mr. Arnold. "The very same! I am happy to find we are fellow-passengers again," replied the ** young man. Some time previous, Mr. Arnold and Fred Morton traveled together, and they were mutually pleased at this unexpected meeting. Mr. Arnold introduced Mr. Morton to the girls, and Kate Morton?the youug man's sister?was duly made known to the party. Very agreeably the moments passed. The moon was now throwing a mellow glow over the rippling waters, and her beams rested lovingly about the deck. "Oh ! how sweet it is out here!" cried Daisy. "Yes; just the time to 'make eyes'?eh ?" asked Lizzie, in a low tone. "Do, Lizzie, hush ! He will hear you, and think me so undignified, if he finds out what I said." "What is that about dignity f" asked Fred. "Oh ! nothing special, Mr. Morton. Madame?our Principal?lectures us a great deal, aud 'dignity' is her favorite theme?so we say." "Well, Miss May, do you not admire 'dignity ?'" . "I do, to a certain extent; not too much of it, however." "We are told that there is a season for all things?a time to be gay, a time to be serious, and so on," continued Fred Morton. "Yes,'a time to dance/' What say you to that?" Daisy asked, pertly. "I judge, from your manner, that you are an ardent advocate of this amusement." "Well, surely, Mr. Morton, you do not object to dancing!" exclaimed Lizzie, who began to think, perhaps, they were entertaiuing a minister, as the good people in oldea time occasionally entertained angels, unawares. "As we have just remarked, Miss Arnold, there is a time for all things. You might say according to Scripture, dancing is approved of. David dauced before the Ark of God. However we find that the mode of dancing so advocated, was very different from ours of the preseut day, and participated in from another and a better motive." "Brother, you will make the impression upon the young ladies that you are disposed to censure any light amusement. Now, young ladies, if such be your opinion, I assure you, it is erroneous. Is it not so, Fred ?" Just then the gong sounded, and our party hastened below to partake of the evening meal. Ding! Dong! It is seven! The wharf! The wharf! The steamer sailed smoothly to shore. Soon, foud ones were meeting, and a general bustle ensued. Mr. Arnold recognized his carriage, and having prevailed upon Mr. Morton and his sister to spend Christmas at his home, they, with the others, were soon comfortably ensconced in the large family-carriage, and hastening through N?, to their destination. Evergreen Dale, Lizzie's home, was a beautiful country-seat, which had been in the Arnold family many years. Mrs. Arnold awaited their arrival upon the piazza, and warmly welcomed them to her lovely home. That night snow fell copiouly, and Daisy saw a fine prospect for her sleigh-ride. Duriug the morning, several gentlemen?friends of gg Lizzie?called, and sleigh-riding was proposed B for the evening. At the appointed time, W sleighs came from N?, and joined the party f at Evergreen Dale. Lizzie was invited to ride with John Grafton, a physician from ! N?, and Daisy rode with Fred Morton in Mr. Arnold's new, pretty sleigh. Jingle! jingle ! went the bells, as the sleigh dashed over the white snow. The night was clear, and the naoon cast bright rays over the spotless earth. On they flew, making the woods resound with their merry laughter and : conversation. ' "What is that !*' suddenly exclaimed several voices. The cause of the alarm was a large, dark object which hurried into a clump of bushes near the road, the undergrowth, or perhaps a if fVrtm riPtt' UltUIl, IllUlUg lb 11UUI ? >. "What do you tbiuk it was?" asked Daisy of her escort. "Some animal wandering about, I suspect, and took fright at our noise," was his reply. Many surmises were made as to the suspicious object, so unexpectedly presented to their view, and as quickly disappearing. "Daisy, have you my guitar ?" presently asked Lizzie. "I have. Shall I play something?" "Do." The speed of the sleighs was slackened, and sweet strains of music soon mingled with the chiming of the bells. Several voices joined Daisy's, and for some distance, the singing of the party could be heard. "Oh! let's serenade theBinums! Seethe housejust up the road?"said Lizzie. "Yes ; it would be a capital idea," exclaimed several. "Suppose we agree to the proposition ?" The music was hushed, and, as silently as possible, they approached the house. When properly arranged before the gate, silvery notes again floated upon the crisp air. Soon, persons appeared upon the broad piazza, and anxious to know who their serenaders were, some left the house to ascertain. "Good evening, Mr. Binum I" exclaimed Lizzie. "Why, Miss Lizzie, I am surprised and delighted to see you!" "We bethought us of you all as we were ! passing, and determined to play before your gate to night," replied Lizzie, gaily. monn timaa f!nr vnnr kinH Tft- i 11 liau & J UU| ilJtto ? WIIUWW) ?UI J W?. ? - ? mernbrance. But do alight and come into tiie house. We would like you to partake of our Christmas wine and cake." They decided to accept the invitation. : Lizzie introduced those who were unknown to the Binums, and they were cordially greeted by the family. Ere long, the young people were "tripping the light fantastic toe," in the capacious reception-room of the Binums. Soon refreshments were handed around. The rich cake and wine were thoroughly discussed, and our party began to make preparations to depart. Nettie Binum iusisted upon their having one more dance; so after gliding through "old Virginia reel," they made their adieux. On the return route, hilarity, as before, triumphed. Daisy was making her first visit to that j part of the country, and was naturally more j [ eager to note everything about her, than the I others. She admired the trees and bushes, in their snowy mantles. Her attention was all at once particularly attracted by a cluster of bushes near the road. They were thicker than any she had noticed, and much underj growth gave them a very compact appear' ance. Just about the middle, there was a j | small opening, and here and there, frozen ! drops glittered. Daisy compared it, in her i imagination, to a natural cave or grotto, with j many chandeliers diffusing light around and j within. As she came directly in front of her I imaginary grotto, she distinctly beheld two ! : fiery eyes fixed upon her, evidently belonging j ! to a dark object which crouched beneath the ( j bushes. Her heart palpitated with fear; but I she refrained from alarming the others. As i she alone saw it, she concluded they would laugh at her, and suppose it only a creature of her imagination. For some time those burning eyes seemed -to blaze before her. What could it be ! she wondered. The sleighs were dashing ahead at such a rapid rate, as only to permit her one glimpse at the denizen of her grotto. At Mr. Arnold's, the party separated, some going to N?, the others remaining at Evergreen Dale. "Christmas gift! Christmas gift!" cried the darkeys everywhere about the premises. The sound of it aroused Daisy, Lizzie and Kate, from their slumbers. As usual, the negroes were hailing the dawn of Christmas day, with shouts of gladness and the inevitable "Christmas gift !" Mrs. Arnold resolved to have a dinner party that day, and the young people were to enliven the evening with a soiree. About 10 o'clock, the guests began to arrive. Soon the parlors were filled to their utmost capacity, with a gay, handsomely attired company. At a late hour, dinner was announced, and the guest9 were shown into ! the diniug-hall, where a bountiful supply of all the luxuries of the season awaited them. It has been said that there is nothing more efficacious in bringing about a flow of good humor than a tempting repa9t. So, on this occasion, of course, that element of the human mind was displayed on every side. After disposing of the numerous courses, and smiling over the good old wine for the usual length of time, the host led the way to the parlors, which were now brilliantly lighted, as the evening shades prevailed. Rich garlands of evergreen mingled with holly-berries, entwined the chandeliers, surmounted the doors and windows, and as far as the eye ; could penetrate, presented a gala appearance. The evening hours were filled with mirth and music. At a late hour the company took their departure. Daisy, Lizzie and Kate , were truly weary when they once more found themselves alone, and quickly sought "tired nature's sweet restorer, balmy sleep." CHAPTER II. I will not dwell upon the Christmas festivities at Evergreen Dale. Suffice to say, each day had its pleasures and amusements for the young people. On the last day of the old j year, Kate and her brother bade adieu to the scenes of their recent enjoyment, much to the regret of the Arnolds, who pressed them to remain longer. Before leaving, Fred Morton astounded Daisy with a declaration of love. She did not anticipate such an occurrence, although his attentions were rather pointed. "I wonder not, Miss Daisy, at your apparent indecision," he said; "so young, so admired. It is scarcely to be supposed that you could yet read aright your own heart. I shall visit you at the time of your commence j nient. Will you promise to ponder ray prop- j j osition between now and then, and give roe a candid reply ?" "I shall do as you desire me," Daisy re- j plied. Thus they parted. Daisy was greatly per- j i plexed. She was compelled to confess that she admired aud liked Fred Morton. He was noble and more sincere than any who had ever j j sued for her hand ; but she could not avoid a feeling, that away down in her heart, there j was a silent chord, no master hand had, as yet,; j caused to vibrate. However, time would prove j whether she loved Fred. She would wait. At twilight of the same day, the Mortons ; left. Daisy sat musing in the embrasure of j i one of the library windows. She was dream-1 | ily watching the scene without. I "Daisy, you look like a veritable fairy, sitj ting there in the twilight shadows," said | Nettie Binura, entering the room. She bad | been detained since the day before by Li.tzie, j who declared Nettie must stay and make up Tlin A rnnlr\a mid Ri | IUT AdlO D a uocutc. xuv aai ? nums were very intimate; therefore, Nettie : felt no hesitancy in doing as Lizzie desired. Daisy and Nettie were mutually pleased with each other's society. "Do tell me, Daisy, if you are engaged to Mr. Morton. Seems to me there must be something of the kind existing between you. I never saw such a look as he gave you when he bade you farewell." "I think you are mistaken about the 'look' he gave me. I can assure you, moreover, that we ! are not engaged. I have always said I inten| ded to be won in a romantic manner. Now, do f tell me, what romance would there be in my journeying hitherward, meeting on the way a young gentleman, quite eligible; we happen to be going to the same place, where, of I course, we are thrown much together. By degrees, we become attached to each other ; then in the usual way an engagement takes place, which is sanctioned by parents and friends." "Of course, there would not be much romance in such a procedure; but unlike you,i am quiet willing to be won and wed in the usual way," said Nettie. "So am II" cried Lizzie, waltzing into the room. "Girls, what shall we do for amusement to night ?" she continued. "I do not suppose we shall have any visitors." "I really do not know of anything new to suggest," said Daisy, quietly playing with her bracelet. "Do you know any thing to suggest, Nettie ?" asked Lizzie. "I know of nothing, unless it is fortune telling. I have read of several modes, recently." ..r-. L? A)?P, ??j ki%tU "UO lei US Iieiir UIOLU i uvmimcu ltjiii, eagerly. "One is by table-rapping ; another by cards; and another?aud I think a dreadful way? is to go into an old deserted out-house at night alone. Carry with you a comb, lamp and looking-glass. Fix the mirror so as to see yourself, then smooth your hair from your brow, and, it said, the spirit of your future husband will peep over your shoulder, and you will catch his eye in the glass. To be sure, it is all nousense; but who would veuture into an out-house, alone, to try such a thing?" "I would !" exclaimed Daisey, in a determined voice. "Give me the requisite articles aud I will try ray fortune this night." "You Daisy!" cried Lizzie and Nettie, almost in one voice. "Yes; I am resolved to try my fortune for the first time. Although I have no faith in such things, still I feel a very great desire to test that last mode." "Very well; if you are determined, go ahead !" said Lizzie, in a partially incredulous voice. "I see you doubt my courage ; but furnish the articles called for, and trust me for the rest." "How about the house?" asked Nettie. "We have iust the nlace reuuired." 3aid ' * . * I Lizzie. "An old man, a faithful friend of, pa's, used to live in the house I allude to. It I is only a very short distance from here. He j died there several years ago. The house has been entirely deserted ever siuce." At the tea-table, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold ' laughed a good deal at Daisy's strange freak. This, however, did not produce the slightest change in her programme for the evening. "Daisy, here are lamp and comb. You will find a mirror there. Old Mr. Sauco's furniture has never been removed, as the negroes j did not care for it, and he had no relatives j living. See the house, just over yonder. Open the first door you come to, ascend the steps, open the door to the right. You will behold ( a dilapidated apartment, I suppose, which ; I assign you." She smiled mischievously, j i "You need not be afraid of being molested, j i as the negroes are very superstitious in re- j | gard to the place, and never go there." j "Thanks, Lizzie, for your harangue ! But! 1 I must away ! The ghosts over yonder bid j me hasten. Consult your 'table,' and when j | I return, we can exchange intelligence," said j Daisy, as she left Lizzie standing on the i I piazza. "Well," murmured Daisy, as she 9tood be- j fore the door of old Sanco's residence, "here i I am! Shall I proceed? Yes, indeed, or I be unmercifully teased by Lizzie and Nettie | for ray superstitious fears." She opened the 1 1 door and crossed the threshold. "Alas!" she ! 1 said, soito voce, "the Rubicon is passed! I j must push through now, aud, 'if I perish, I perish !' " Slowly she began to ascend the i rickety steps. Her hand rested upon the, knob of the last door ; cautiously she turned it, and the door opened reluctantly on its ' rusty hinges. She now beheld the place of her destination, though indistinctly ; a9 the j 1 small lamp she carried gave a feeble light." j The room was rather large and presented a very desolate appearance. Old moth-eaten | furniture, consisting of a time worn, faded ' anfii ? hod : a few chairs and the bureau I w"*~ > - ' -- -j containing the mirror, adorned this deserted apartment. Mechanically, Daisy moved toj wards the bureau, almost starting at the ; sound of her footsteps upon the hare floor, i i When she reached the bureau, she found it j 1 literally covered with dust. She took her j handkerchief and began an impromptu , cleansing process. This finished, she turned to give the solitary apartment one more in- j spection, ere she proceeded with trying her > fortune. Only the shabby, dust-covered fur- j niture, and gray festoons of cob-webs here; and there, greeted her gaze. Again facing j the glass, she commenced to smooth her rip-' ; pling locks. A sweeping robe of some crim-1 j sou fabric, fell in heavy folds about her J I graceful form, and soft, white lace encircled i the neck and was caught up at the throat by a cluster of geranium leaves and flowers. She was struck with her excessive paleness. Without, could be heard the sighing of the wind amoug the trees and around the corners of the house, occasionally slightly shaking the windows, which were shaded by old, faded curtains. Anon, she would glance nervously at the one nearest her, almost expecting to see it uplifted by ghostly Angers. However, her sojourn in the abode of loneliness would soon be ended. Then her triumph would be complete ! She smiled as she thought thus. Horrors! What was thatl She could not be mistaken ! Something actually touched her shoulder! She looked hastily in the direction indicated. A hand rested upon her nUyvoMa. I TllO t V. rtll fT H f. Bfl" II O If ll P P th SO Itl e OIJUUIUt/A | J. (JV vuwwg... W.. of the servants had overheard her express the intention to visit old Sanco's house, and had concealed themselves in order to frighten her. But no, the hand upon her shoulder was white and shapely. Could Mr. Arnold have preceded her to the house, and contrived the surprise, to shame her for her strange folly? Glancing timidly into the mirror, her blood almost curdled in her veins at the sight she beheld. There, gazing at her from the depths of the mirror, were two terrible, fiery black eyes! She felt assured that those very eyes had looked at her before, out of her imaginary grotto, on the night of her sleighride. What could she do ? Gradually she began to sink. The tremendous shock was too much for her. Suddenly she felt herself supported by a hand on each shoulder. Almost unconscious, she again looked into the mirror. Wbat a splendid face she beheld ! Surely, it was not old Sanco's ghost! If splint at all, it was of some dead king or lord. But what was it doing there? Why had she been so silly? Fortune, indeed ! All this flashed through her mind. She began to devise means for escaping. Alas! those hands held her in a merciless grip! "Will you please permit me to leave thin room ?" she asked, in a weak voice. No reply was vouchsafed her. "Who are you ?" she moaned. Silence reigned supreme. She was deathly pale, and felt as if she would faint. However, against this, she struggled desperately. Her long lashes rested upon her pallid cheeks, and her lips quivered. She would have screamed, but was powerless with fright. "If you are a robber, I will not betray you, if you will only let me go," she said, feebly. She was suddenly wheeled around by the mysterious hands, and found herself face to face with the object of her terror. His eyes i n i i? 3 t_: :c were sterniy nxeo upou ner, uuu ma umguiucent form towered above her in haughty silence. Was this the person she bad insinuated was a robber ? Quietly he took up the lamp, looked at her,, pointed to the door, and moved slowly away. Daisy followed, feeling more like one dreaming. Would she presently awake from this strange sleep and find her experience in Sanco's dwelling a delusion? She pressed her hand over her eyes and looked at the unaccountable creature walking so mystically in front of her. She knew Bhe saw him with her real eyes; it was no dream. He paused at the door and glanced over his shoulder at her. Daisy's heart gave a quick bound, and she halted where she was, resolved to keep as far as possible. He beckoned her to him; but she did not move. There was a window near. She looked at it, as if tempted to fly through and risk her life, rather than pass the beckoning creature at the door. She seemed to divine his thoughts. A half perceptible smile curled his handsome lips. He opened the door and pointed to the steps. Oh! how longingly Daisy looked at them! She began to think of darting past him and down the steps, ere he could intercept her. Man or ghost, she was dreadfully afraid of him, and was determined not to allow him to touch her again if she could avoid it. She moved a few paces nearer, threw one hand behind, gathered her long skirt and made a desperate bound for the door. Alas ! she was too late I A huge form was planted in the open door, and instead of lauding upon the steps, as she aimed to do, she ran against the creature she was so anxious to shun. His eves twinkled raerrilv and a bright smile flashed over his expressive face. He held the burning lamp high above her head. Quick as thought, she sped back into the room, trembling so that she could scarcely stand. Cold perspiration broke from every pore, and she felt that strength and consciousness were fast forsaking her. Quietly the form in the door now advanced to where she stood. The same hand which had rested on her shoulder, now clasped her hand, and she felt herself led to the threshold. She was assisted down the steps, and when they reached the last door, his fingers suddenly touched her chin. She raised her drooping lids and saw his finger upon his lips, as if to indicate silence. His gaze sought hers, questioningly. She understood the sign, and willing to promise anything to get away, she bowed slightly in acquiescence. He now handed her the lamp, opened the door?taking the precaution to conceal himself behind it? and motioned her to go. She soon heard it close behind her retreating form. Her heart began to palpitate more moderately. How thankful she was to be again in the cool night-air! How lovingly it fanned her pale cheeks ! "1 have promised not to repeat what has happened. Strange what a fascination he threw over me I Any other girl would have screamed and fainted, or perhaps lost her senses entirely. I was terribly frightened, but could not give a single Bhriek. Whew ! how cold his fingers were!" She glanced hastily over her shoulder as she spoke, almost expecting to see him following her. "I shall have to evade all direct questions." Lizzie and Nettie met her at the door opening into the back-piazza. . _ 1 T ?_ "How long you have oeen gonei saia lizzie. "Surely you did see him ! Do tell us how he looks, and who he is." "Please, do not ask too many questions at once. You seem to be anxious in regard to my fate ; how about yours." They had reached the sitting-room and Beated themselves around the cheerful grate. "Daisy, how pale you are !" exclaimed Lizzie. "Have you seen a ghost?" "I thiuk I can guess," said Nettie, smiling. | "Probably no one appeared and she feels that she is destined to be an 'old maid.' " "Perhaps you are correct," replied Daisy ; "but do tell me, whose spirit did you call up ; from its peaceful slumber to answer your quesj tions ?" J "Oh ! several said they were here, but were ( unable to reveal much," said Nettie. The next day Daisy was haunted by the ; 1 remembrance of her singular adventure in old ! Sanco's house. She endeavored, in every po3- J 1 sible way, to unravel the mystery in her mind. ; i She thought at one time that it must have j been a spirit, which had wandered thither; J 1 atannthor that, it was an Italian bandit es : caped to thia country, for like an Italian be appeared. Alas ! the problem was too deep for her ; she could not solve it. One afternoon, just before the time appointed for Lizzie's and Daisy's return to school, the latter reclined upon a divan in the libra* ry. She was alone. The coals glowed in the grate. The sun cast one beam through the parted damask curtain opposite, which touched the young girl's fair brow and kindled her hair to a shining mass of gold. The perfume which floated through the open door of the conservatory, filled the room with its deliciousness, and very much soothed her unquiet spirit. Daisy had been living over again the remarkable scenes through which she had recently passed. She endeavored to console herself with the thought that she would soon leave the place, and among other scenes, and other people, the impression made upon her would be effaced. Almost imperceptibly the long lashes began to hide the bright eyes, and soon she slept. The library and conservatory formed an "L" to the main building. Three doors opened into the library ; one from the body of the house, another from the conservatory, and one from a small balcony, which was so covered with ivy as to look, at a short distance, like a large, green ball. Suddenly the leaves in this little retreat began to stir. Surely the wind was not the cause of it, for the evergreens in the yard were perfectly at rest. The door begins to open cautiously, and a dark, handsome face appears in the open portal. Gradually the figure enters and ap proacbes the spot where Daisy dreams. He kneels beside her, and his bands are passed quickly around her slender neck. Does he intend to murder her secretly? Something sparkles upon her white throat?what is it? He now stoops and touches lightly with his lips, the youthful brow of the sleeper. Not too lightly, however. She moves. The long, black lashes are raised. The kneeling figure rises hurriedly and essays to leave the room, but too late! With a smothered cry, Daisy springs from the divan. She was, for a time, completely paralyzed with astonishment, and only looked at the intruder in a bewildered manner. His eyes were riveted upon her face, as if too fascinated to quit, for a moment, the beauteous countenance. There was unutterable sadness expressed in their dark depths. Almost imploringly he looked at the young girl. A sudden idea struck her. Probably this was some spirit in trouble, and wanted her to aid him in some inexplicable I manner. She had read of such things. But, Oh ! how awful. She assist a ghost! Surely, this was one; fur how could a human be! ing appear at such times, and so mysteriously? Were ghosts dumb? She continued to ' return his gaze, scarcely knowing what to do I or say. Gradually he now began to retreat, his | eyes fixed mournfully upon her face. She tcould ask him what be wished ; comply with his request, if possible, and thus exorcise this haunting image. With this determination she crossed the room and stood in front of her strange visitor. Her courage nearly forsook her, when she found herself again face to face with the object that frightened her so iu Sanco's house. She looked at him timidly. He had paused when she started toward him, and now waited as if to note what she was going to do. "Will you be so good as to tell me what your desigu is, in following me thus ? Can I, in any way, assist you? Are you in trouble?" He continued to regard her, as before, withiti^Awlnra n tnnv/) UUl UlLCllUg a nuiu, "Oh ! do tell me something about yourself. | I ana so anxious to know who you are! Are i you mute?" A smile partially curled his speechless lips, and Daisy wondered if ghosts ever smiled. Somehow, her natural timidity had fled, and curiosity had taken its place. "Please don't keep me in suspense. I would 1 do anything in ray power to relieve you." She looked up, pleadingly, as she spoke. ! What was there so f'asciuating about the creaj ture ? She felt irresistibly drawn toward him, j as if by magic. Was he charming her as the serpent does its prey? He caught her hand and pressed it reverently to his lips. A ra diant smile illumed his face, like sunshine j through the parting of clouds. He stepped i ! to a small centre-table and wrote on a sheet of ! paper: "Beautiful Lady: Do not essay to fir;d me out. | I have seen you to-day, perhaps, for the last time. May God, in His wisdom, direct you ever ; and < if not again in this world, may you, in a better and happier one, meet your Mysterious Friend." Daisy's eye glanced hurriedly over the pen| ciled lines. She looked up almost awe-strick| en. Was this some spiritual messenger sent to warn her of her thoughtlessness and utter 1 indifference, as to another world, save the al... | luring one in which she lived ? With one more long, lingering look at her, ; | he gained the door and was soon concealed ! by the dark, green foliage. As Daisy retraced her steps to the divan, her glance fell upon the mirror, and to her : amazement, she beheld a magnificent cross, thickly studded with brilliant stones, resting in the lace around her neck. She seized it, and ! unclasping the delicate chain which held it, turned it over and over in her palm, admiring its great beauty. Apparently, the sets were nure diamonds. Who could have nut it I 1 . I j there? she wondered. Had Lizzie stolen in ! while she slept? No, no; impossible! It j was too costly for a Christmas present from one school girl to another. Again that hand- j some face rose before her mind's eye, and she | felt to him alone, she was indebted for anoth-, er perplexity. She now heard foot-steps approaching, and hastily dropped the chain and radiant cross iuto her pocket. "Daisy, you must really pardon me for ! leaving you so long. Mamma wished to show me some things; also to give me some directions in regard to my wardrobe. I did not intend to stay so long," said Lizzie, upon entering the room. "Do Dot give yourself any unnecessary worry, ma chhre, I have been spending the time in 'dream land' and did not miss you, mademoiselle." Daisy could not make up her mind to disclose her secret even to Lizzie; so the latter remained in utter ignorance as to her friend's encounter in their usually quiet library. Several days after the events record above, Lizzie and Daisy bade a reluctant adieu to Evergreen Dale, and returned to their school and books. [conclusion next week.] fUadittg. OYSTERS. TliA nvofpr anowna in .Tnlv. fillinc the All I* rounding water with a vast quantity of blackish dust, each particle of which !b an embryo. These attach themselves to whatever object comes in their way?stems and leaves of aquatic plants, stones, sunken logs, other oysters, etc., etc., and begin to grow. If you should take up an old shell from the bottom at this time, you would find it peppered all over with this spawn. The baymen say that each oyster spawns successfully only once in three or four years, and then in such profusion that a few weeks afterward the minute oysters cover the old bed to the depth of several inches, killing off, of course, all the parent molluska. This host of young oysters having been born in July, are by the next spring eight or nine months old, and in size about as large as the finger nail. They are now taken up and distributed over the ground which is intended to be planted. It is calculated that they will not spawn in their new home when they reach the proper age, being discouraged by the different temperatures or qualities of the water into which they have been transferred. To have them spawn is disastrous, since the new little oysters attaching themselves to the old render both unfit for market. The planting is done from April till the end of June. One can put on a four-acre lot just as little, of course, as his inclination or money directs, but a fair quantity is from 1,500 to 2,000 bushels, costing, at constantly varying prices, perhaps 20 cents a bushel. If it is the original seeding, oysters two years old may be used, and these will cost more. The oysters having been dumped upon the ground will stay there. They are not MvnAv-k mn n/lniilnn Kitf I f nnf fkorflPn glVCii tw VTailUCllUg) UUb llf UULO UUU DUVIVIV/IO follow that they will be brought up alive when they are sought in the autumn. If twoyeare old oysters are planted in the spring they can be taken up the next autumn and during all the winter when the weather and ice will allow. There is more safety in this, but far less profit. The more risky but more remunerative way is to plant yearlings and let them lie over. If they live, five times the original outlay is not too great a return to expect at the end of two years. The chances of selling at a good figure are in* creased by a "trick of the trade," which consists in taking the oysters from the bed where they have been growing and laying them in shallow water on a gravelly bottom, preferable at the mouth of a fresh-water stream, where they will be covered alternately by fresh and salt water never stagnant. In two or three days even they will "fatten" handsomely and sell for a higher price that they would otherwise obtain. Oysters, however, have many enemies. If the winter is S'ich that the bay is not steadily frozen over, the constant turmoil of the drifting ice and the fierce lashing of the storms will keep the bottom torn up and the water so rolled that the sand either drifts into the shells faster than the animal can force it out, and so kills it, or the currents bury the bed altogether beneath a new bottom. Three years ago a large part of the crop was lost in this way. There are also various sea-animals that prey on the oysters. The red drumfish crushes the shell in its formidable mouth and devours the luscious morsel within, and, it is said, caused the utter Aiit.ipa o fau, xraara ?rrn nf nvnfpr niltlirfl in Newark Bay. Two little univalve molluaks, the "borer" (Buccinum) and the "winkle" (Nerila t) creep over the beds and with their tile-like tongues bore a smooth round hole through the shell (in just such a spot as will paralyze the adductor muscle by which the oyster holds its shell shut), and then suck out the life of the poor prisoner. Lastly, the star-fishes insinuate themselves between the valves and eat the defenceless mollusk on his own "half-shell." All these perils past, he is reserved only for death at the hands of his owner. From June 15 to September 15 the law prohibits the taking of oysters. They are then spawning, or at least growing. In the autumn the dredging begins. This is doue by means of double-handed "tongs," which scoop up the oysters rapidly. Most of them are brought ashore and sold to shippers who have previously contracted for the whole catch. Many, however, are disposed of at a bargain. Owners of sloops and schooners will go to the bay, hoist a basket to the masthead as a signal that they want to buy, and get a shipload on the best termB they can, which they then carry to market and endeavor to sell at a profit. Immense quantities are shipped in barrels from the shore towns?how many it is extremely difficult to estimate. Lately a trade has grown up with Europe, and Sayville alone is reported to have forwarded five thousand barrels to England. Only tbe smallest oysters are sent abroad. Accustomed to their own diminutive bivalves, Europeans are afraid of big "Blue Points" and "Saddle Rocks." A Summer Shower.?What a spur and impulse the summer shower is! How its coming quickens and hurries up the slow, jogging country life ! The traveler along the dusty road arouses from his reverie at the warning rumble behind the hills; the children hasten from the field or from the school; the farmer steps lively and thinks fast. In the hay-field, at the first signal-gun of the elements, what a commotion! How the horserake rattles, how the pitch-forks fly, how the white sleeves play and twinkle in the sun or against the dark back-ground of the coming storm ! One man does the work of two or three. It is a race with the elements, and the hay-makers do not like to be beaten. The rain that is life to the grass when growing is poison to it after it becomes cured hay, and it must be got under shelter, or put up into snug cocks if possible, before the storm overtakes it. Facts about Water.?Flace a pitcher of ice water iii a room inhabited, and in a few hours it will have absorbed nearly all the perspiration gases of the room, the air of which will become purer, but the water utterly filthy. This depends upon the fact that the water has the faculty of condensing and thereby absorbing nearly all the gases. At ordinary temperature, a pint of water will contain a pint of carbonic acid gas and several pints of ammonia. This capacity is nearly doubled by reducing it to that of ice. Hence water kept in a room awhile is always unfit for use ; and should be often removed, whether it has become warm or not. And for the same reason the water in a pump should be pumped out in the morning before any is used. That which has stood in a pitcher over night is not fit for coffee water in the morning. Impure water is as injurious to health as impure air, and every person should provide the means of obtaining fresh pure water for their domestic use. The Devil's Fruit.?Potatoes were first introduced at Moscow by a Mr. Rowland, between eighty and ninety years ago. At first, people would neither plant nor touch them, saying they were the devil's fruit, given to him on complaining to God that he had no fruit, when he was told to search in the earth for some, which he did and found potatoes. A curious Berwickshire legend, which, however, is palpably anachronical, attributes the introduction of potatoes into Scotland to that famous wizard of the north, Sir Michael Scott. The wizard and the devil being in partnership took a lease of a farm on the Mertoun estate, called Whitehouse. The wizard was to manage the farm ; the devil managed the capital. mi v , t J? __ i J / _ l| roe produce was to oe aiviaea a? rouows; The first year, Sir Michael was to have all that grew above the ground, and his partner all that grew below: the second year their shares were just the opposite way. His Satanic majesty, as is usual in such cases, was fairly overreached in his bargain: for the wizard cunningly sowed all the land in the firs< year with wheat, and planted it with potatoes the second; so that the devil got nothing but wheat stubble and potato tops; and this scourging rotation Sir Michael continued, until he bad not only beggared his partner, but exhausted the eoil. In spite of this legend, however, we must continue to give credit to Sir Walter Raleigh for having been the introducer of potatoes into this country. The first that tried them, we are told, fell into the very natural mistake of eating the apples, and disregarding the roots.?The Agricultural Magazine. A Son of Alexander Hamilton Tells an Affecting Story of his Father.?Mr. John G. Hamilton, a son of Alexander Hamilton, gives a correspondent of the Philadelphia Times this pathetic incident of his father. "My father's residence was in the country, toward the north of New York island. His law office in the city was rather a shabby affair. The day before the duel I was sitting in a room, when hearing a slight noise, I turned around and saw my father in the doorway, standing there and looking at me with a most sweet and beautiful expression of countenance. It was full of tenderness, and without any of the business preoccupation he sometimes had. 'John,' he said, when I had discovered him, 'won't you come and sleep with me to-night?' His yoice was frank, as if he had been my brother instead of my father. That night I went to his bed, and in the morning very early he awakened me, and taking my hands in hia nnlma all fnnp hanrin e*tended. he said. and told me to repeat, the Lord's Prayer. Seventy-five years have since passed over my head, and I have forgotten many things, but not that tender expression when he stood looking at me in the door, nor the prayer we made together on the morning before the duel." : ? l?: The Ocean Eagle.?Michelet, the distinguished French author, thus pays a tribute to an ocean eagle: I see a small blue point in the heaven.? Happy and serene region, which has rested iu peace above the hurricane 1 At the blue point, at an elevation of 10,000 feet, loyally floats a little bird with enormous wings. A gull? No; its wings are black. An eagle? No;the bird is too small. It is the little ocean eagle, flrst and chief of the winged race, the daring navigator who never furls his sails, the lord of the tempest, the ecorner of all peril?the man-of-war or frigate bird. We have reached the culminating point of the series, commenced by the wingless bird. Here we have a bird which is virtually nothing more than wings; scarcely any body?barely as large as that of the domestic cock?while his prodigious pinions are fifteen feet in span. The great problem of flight is solved and overpassed, for the power of flight seems useless. Such a bird, naturally sustained by such support, need not allow himself to be borne along. The storm bursts; be mounts to lofty heights, where be finds tranquility. The poetic metapnor, unirue when applied to any other bird, is no exageration when applied to him; literally he sleeps upon the storm. When he chooses to soar his way seriously, all distance vanishes ; he breakfasts at the Senagal; he dines in America. The Benefit of Laughing.?Dr. Green, in his 'Problem of Health,' says that there is not the remotest corner or inlet of the minute blood vesselsofthe human body that does not feel some waver from the convulsion occasioned by good hearty laughter. The life principle, or the inward man, is shaken to its innermost depths, sending new tides of life and strength to the surface, thus materially tending to insure good health to the persons who moderately indulge therein. The blood moves more rapidly and conveys different impressions to all the organs of the body as it visits them on that particular journey when the man is laughing, from what it does at other times. For this reason every good hearty laugh in which a person indulges tends to lengthen his life, conveying, as it does, new and distinct stimulus to the vital forces. Doubtless the time will come when the physicians, conceding more importance than they do now to the influence of the mind upon the vital forces of the body, will make their prescriptions more with reference to the condition of the mind, and drugs for the body ; and in so doing -will find the best and most effective methods of producing the required effect upon the patient. The Be8t Cows for Small Farms.?It is not supposed that cows kept on a small farm are put there for the purpose of raising calves for sale. They are placed there for the butter they produce. The question is often asked, "which shall they be, blooded or scrub stock ?" The question is easily answered?keep only such stock as is best adapted for the purpose. Our opinion and also that of our principal dairymen of the country, is that the Jersey, commonly called Alderney, is, above all others, the best cow. They are easily kept, very decile?a point not to be overlooked?and beautiful, give milk of superior richness, from which is produced finely colored, solid butter, having an equal texture and flavor. Butter made from such milk has been known to keep when placed in a dry, not cold, cellar, without the use of ice, and when taken out was in a hard, firm condition, and was then spld at twelve to eighteen cents per pound, higher than best ordinary butter. The cost of Jersey is not much more than for scrub, and they will more than make up the difference in price in a few months.? j Live Stock Record. A Clock Made of Bread.?There was ! recently received in Milan a great curiosity in the shape of a clock made entirely of bread. 1 m' '? t- - t> t?j:?? ine matter is a reruvmu, a uanvc xuuiau, | aud be has devoted three years of bis life to the construction of this curiosity, lie was very poor, and being without means to purchase the necessary metal deprived himself regularly of a portion of his daily bread, which he devoted to the construction of this curiosity, eating the crust and saving the soft part for hiB work. He made use of a certain salt to solidify his material, and when the various pieces were dry they were perfectly hard and insoluble to water. The clock is of respectable size, and goes perfectly well. The case, which is also of hardened bread, displays great talent, both in design and execution, and taken altogether it would be difficult to find a greater curiosity.