ice young lady made
away with?' I could not, of course, give him any particulars, but having
learned from himself that he had amassed a good deal of money himself,
and that with the addition of _your_ fortune (I cannot help calling it
yours) he would really be a man of wealth, I ventured to suggest that he
should not demand the refunding of what you had used while in possession
of the property, and showed him what a bad impression it would create in
the minds of those among whom he evidently wishes to make a place for
himself. He thought for a few moments, and then said he would consider
the matter and consult his legal advisers before coming to a decision,
adding that he did not understand how it was that they as well as myself
were on your side. Then I left him, and I feel a strong impression that
he will lay aside his worst intentions. I only trust he will spare
whatever balance may stand to your credit with your banker."

"You have indeed done me a great service," cried Katherine, "If George
Liddell does as you suggest I shall not be afraid to face the future. I
shall surely be able to find some employment myself; then I need not
importune Colonel Ormonde for my nephews."

"He will surely not leave them without means," cried Errington.

"I am not sure. They have no legal claim upon him, and he is very angry
with me for causing such confusion, though--"

--"Though," interrupted Errington, "your only error was
over-generosity."

"My _only_ error, Mr. Errington!"--casting down her eyes and interlacing
her fingers nervously. "If he only knew!"

"But he does not; he never shall!" exclaimed Errington, with animation,
drawing unconsciously nearer. "That is a secret between you and me. None
shall ever know our secret. All I ask is that you will forgive me for my
unfortunate precipitancy in destroying the means of saving you, which
you had placed in my hands--that you will forgive me, and let me be your
friend. It is so painful to see you shrink from me as you do."

"Can you wonder, guilty as I feel myself to be? But if you so far
overlook my evil deeds as to think me worth your friendship, I am glad
and grateful to accept it. As to forgiveness, what have I to
forgive?--your haste to save me from the possibility of discovery?"

"Then," said Errington, who had gazed for a moment in silence on his
companion, whose face was slightly turned from him, every line of her
pliant figure, from the graceful drooping head to the