Horatio Alger

“ Benton left Paul, and crossing the street, took up his position beneath the window of his charmer, beginning to sing, in a thin, piping voice, as preconcerted between them--
"Ever of thee, I'm fo-o-ondly dreaming." The song was destined never to be finished.
From his post in a doorway opposite, Paul saw the window softly open. He could distinguish a tall female figure, doubtless Miss Hawkins herself. She held in her hand a pitcher of water, which she emptied with well- directed aim full upon the small person of her luckless admirer. ”

“ Benton; "you're only a boy, you know."
"Are you going to be under her window, Nich,--I mean Mr. Benton?"
"Of course. Do you think I would miss the appointment? No earthly power could prevent my doing it."
"Then I had better leave you," said Paul, making a movement to go.
"No, I want you to accompany me as far as the door. I feel--a little agitated. I suppose everybody does when they are in love," added Mr. Benton, complacently.
"Well," said Paul, "I will see you to the door, but I can't stay, for they will wonder at home what has become of me." ”

“ The falling column struck upon his beaver, thence spreading on all sides. His carefully starched collar became instantly as limp as a rag, while his coat suffered severely from the shower.
His tuneful accents died away in dismay. ”