Maxey 209 



faithful Maxey, whose slickly groomed coat gave his 

 homely form almost the appearance of beauty. They 

 had been enjoying a long stroll, and Herbert was 

 talking to his dumb companion with a confidence 

 and freedom that evidently were well bestowed. 

 "The quiet little creature seemed to understand per- 

 fectly, and all his actions betokened his confidence 

 and affection. As they came to a turn in the road 

 Herbert saw a carriage approaching. His blood 

 stirred, for he recognized the carriage and its occu- 

 pants, one of whom was his fiancee. As they drew 

 nearer he was puzzled and strangely pained to see a 

 peculiar look on her face, of mingled anger and con- 

 tempt, as her eyes rested on the burro. Stepping to 

 one side and lifting his hat, he bowed as the car- 

 riage stopped. 



' We are seeing the beauties of nature,' she 

 laughingly declared. 



4 You have them with you,' said Herbert, gal- 

 lantly. 



The young ladies all smiled over this sally, and 

 the driver spoke to his horses. 



4 Of course I shall see you this evening,' said 



