he late Mr.
John Liddell, who had been a great friend of his (Errington's) father.
Your cousin seemed to know the name, and, moreover, very pleased at
being spoken to and remembered. Mr. Errington offered to call, and now I
find he has recommended his own solicitors, Messrs. Compton & Barnes, to
George Liddell. I had an interview with the head of the firm yesterday,
and he has evidently advised that the strictly legal claims against you
should not be pressed. I cannot help thinking that Mr. Errington has
interested himself on your side."

"Indeed!" cried Katherine, life and warmth coming back to her heart at
his words.

"Yes, I do. Compton appears to have the highest possible opinion of
Errington as a man of integrity and intelligence. He, Compton says,
believes that if Liddell could be persuaded such a line of conduct
toward you would injure him socially, he would not seek to enforce his
rights, for he is evidently anxious to make a position in the
respectable world. As you make no opposition to his claims he ought to
show you consideration. This accidental encounter between Errington and
your cousin will, I am sure, prove a fortunate circumstance."

In her own mind Katherine could not help doubting its accidental
character. How infinitely good and forgiving Errington was! While she
thought, Mr. Newton mused.

"I suppose you have a tolerable balance at the bank?" he said, abruptly.

"Yes. I have never spent a year's income in a year. Just lately, except
for buying that house, I have spent very little."

"That house! Oh--ah! I shall be curious to see how Miss Trant will
behave. If she is true to her word; if she looks upon your loan to her
as a loan--an investment on your side--you may gain an addition to your
income through what was an act of pure benevolence. When you go home, my
dear young lady, look at your bank-book, and let me know exactly how you
stand. We might offer this cormorant of a cousin a portion of your
savings to finish the business. Indeed I should advise you to draw a
good large check at once so as to provide yourself with ready money."

"Would it be quite--quite honest to do so?" asked Katherine, anxiously.

"Pray do you impugn my integrity?"

"No! But suppose George Liddell found I had drawn a large check--perhaps
the very day before I propose through you to hand over what remains to
me--he would think me a cheat?"

"And pray why should he know anything about your bank-book? or what
cons