Beadle's Dime Novels, No. 11 — page 21: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

TWO LETTERS. 19 until the hour of midnight, that I may more fitly prepare for the solemn duties about to be put upon me. Be so kind as to let me know by written word, whether or not, you comply with my request. Your niece, MrxERVA MONSERATE.” In a few moments the octoroon returned, and handed a note to her mistress. The seal was hastily broken, and the senora reail : “Best or NIEcEs: “You have my full consent to spend the evening as you choose. Iwill excuse you to our guests. I will send you a case of jewels that belonged to your mother. Accept my kindest wishes for your happiness. “Your ever obliged, UNCLE.” The senora tossed the letter from her, with a contemptuous “Nothing else could be done,” she murmured, below her breath. Then she turned to her dressing-maid. “T have obtained permission from my uncle to remain at home, till the expiration of the time set for my wedding. You need not look so strangely, you see I am quite calm about it. Don Carlos will make a noble bridegroom;” the sneer was but half concealed. “He is not noble; there is nothing noble about him,” said the girl, impulsively. “ Well, well, noble or not, you see how the case stands. I am not going down to this party—” Althea started. “Not going!” she repeated. “No, I shall stay in the solitude of my chamber, the greater part of the time,” returned her mistress. “ And your beautiful ball-dress! Oh, not to wear it at all!” “You forget I am to be married,” said Minerva. “Yes, but it will not be happy. You look anxious and pale, while you talk about it. Besides, it is mean in them to cajole you into it.” “Hush! Althea, remember you talk about my uncle. By the way, is that sister of yours still alone ?” “ All alone,” was the answer. Commicloooks.aconn