MILLIE S VICTORY.

 She heard Miss Conway's step on the stairs, and
 tried in vain to check her crying.
 Oh mamma! Oh, mamma, I want you "
 The pitiful wail would come.
 Millicent."
 Miss Conway's heavy hand was laid on her niece's
 shoulder.
 "Get up. Do you hear me. Get up at once."
 Millie was too afraid of her aunt to disobey, She
 rose slowly up, clasping her locket tightly. Her
 aunt's sharp eyes saw it at once.
 Give me that locket, Millicent."
 "No-no; oh! I can't; I can't, indeed."
 Miss Conway's lips tightened down over her teeth
 with a little, cruel snap.
 What did I tell you. The first time you dis-
 obeyed me, I wouldn't let you go to the Templeton's.
 Give me that locket."
 But Millie held it fast. "Oh I can't, Aunt
 Millicent. I must keep it. It was mamma's last pre-
 sent to me."
 But her aunt caught her pleading hands, and
snatched the little trinket away.
 I am going to keep it safe enough," she answered
sharply to Millie's bitter sobs.
 "I shall keep it for a punishment-keep it till
you win it back. Now, stop that crying for goodness'
sake. The village will think I am half killing you.
Now, I am going to get tea, and if you want any, come
and help; you won't have any if you don't."
 Millie didn't answer her a word. To take awaj
her locket, her best treasure, it seemed like break
ing the last link that bound her to home, and mother,
 Miss Conway went down, closing the door behind
her, and Millie was left alone. Alone she seemed.