Dr. Wilmer's Love; Or, a Question of Conscience. a Novel (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1868 Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VI. AN UNEXPECTED GUEST. Having apologized for my late appearance, I turned away in search of some one that I knew. The rooms were certainly most beautiful, and did full credit to Miss Pauline's taste; although I could detect traces of Miss Ferris in the decorations. Her favorite colors, white and violet, were visible wherever they could be introduced, and were particularly noticeable in the arrangement of the flowers. White rosebuds, camelias, and tube-roses, contrasted with heliotropes and violets, were scattered in profusion throughout the rooms. Every ornament that could be made available contained natural flowers, whose beauty and mingled perfumes added to the influence of the scene. From various opinions that reached me as I made my way through the little groups, I gathered that the aflair was considered rather strange and mysterious. It was too early in the season, some thought; others wondered at the costliness and display so opposite to the usual taste of Mrs. Masters. Many walked about as though perplexed at having received invitations; and those I concluded at once were Mrs. Parker's own friends. At last I caught a glimpse of a figure which seemed familiar; but, on having a full view of it, I felt that I was mistaken. Surely my staid sister, with smooth hair and high dress, never could have so changed her identity. Yet in spite of the low-necked evening toilet of rubycolored silk, covered with lace ornaments, and the hair arranged in the latest style, all puffs and coils, it was my sister; for she turned at that moment and came to welcome me, her face lit up with pleasure. I always had an idea, amounting to a belief, that my sister's features and figure were very handsome; but that night I felt that she was indeed a beautiful woman in spi...