erhaps more than you would like."

"I do not mind how much you know," said Katherine, sadly. "I am glad you
care enough to inquire."

"I want you to understand that I care very, very much," replied
Errington, in a low, earnest tone. "You and I have crossed each other's
paths in an extraordinary manner, and if you will allow me, I should
like to act a brother's part to you if--" He broke off abruptly, and
Katherine, looking up to him with a bright smile, exclaimed, "I shall be
delighted to have such a brother, and will not give you more trouble
than I can help."

"Thank you." He seemed to hesitate a moment, and then, with a change of
tone, observed: "You and Miss Bradley seem to have become intimate. You
must find her an agreeable companion. I think she might be a useful
friend."

"She is extremely kind. I cannot say how much obliged to her I am; but,"
continued Katherine, impelled by an unaccountable antagonism, "do you
know, I cannot understand why she likes me. There is no real sympathy
between us. She is so wise and learned. She never would do wrong things
from a sudden irresistible impulse, and then devour her heart with, not
repentance, exactly, but remorse which cannot be appeased."

"Probably not. She is rather a remarkable woman. Strong, yet not hard. I
fancy we are the arbiters of our own fate."

"Oh no! no!" cried Katherine, with emotion. "Just think of the snares
and pitfalls which beset us, and how hard it is to keep the narrow road
when a heart-beat too much, a sudden rush of sorrow or of joy, and our
balance is lost: even steady footsteps slide from the right way. Believe
me, some never have a fair chance."

Errington made a slight movement nearer to her, and after a brief pause
said, "I should like to hear you argue this with Angela Bradley."

It sounded strange and unpleasant to hear him say "Angela."

"I never argue with her," said Katherine. "Mine are but old-fashioned
weapons, while hers are of the latest fashion and precision. Moreover,
we stand on different levels, I am sorry to say. I wonder she troubles
herself about me. Is it pure benevolence? or"--with a quick glance into
his eyes, which were unusually animated--"did you ask her of her
clemency to throw me some crumbs of comfort? If so, she has obeyed you
gracefully and well."

"Unreason has a potent advocate in you, Miss Liddell," said Errington;
smiling a softer smile than usual. "But I want you to understand and
appreciate Miss Br