ting him; and the
next moment Helen glided into the room, blushing a little, and even
panting inaudibly, but all on her guard. She saw before her a rather
stately figure, and a face truly venerable, benignant and beautiful,
though deficient in strength. She cast a devouring glance on him as she
courtesied to him; and it instantly flashed across her, "But for you
there would be no Robert Penfold." There was an unconscious tenderness in
her voice as she spoke to him, for she had to open the interview.

"Mr. Penfold, I fear my visit may surprise you, as you did not write to
me. But, when you hear what I am come about, I think you will not be
displeased with me for coming."

"Displeased, madam! I am highly honored by your visit--a lady who, I
understand, is to be married to my worthy employer, Mr. Arthur. Pray be
seated, madam."

"Thank you, sir."

Helen began in a low, thrilling voice, to which, however, she gave
firmness by a resolute effort of her will.

"I am come to speak to you of one who is very dear to you, and to all who
really know him."

"Dear to me? It is my son. The rest are gone. It is Robert."

And he began to tremble.

"Yes, it is Robert," said she, very softly; then turning her eyes away
from him, lest his emotion should overcome her, she said-- "He has laid
me and my father under deep obligations."

She dragged her father in; for it was essential not to show Mr. Penfold
she was in love with Robert.

"Obligations to my Robert? Ah, madam, it is very kind of you to say that,
and cheer a desolate father's heart with praise of his lost son! But how
could a poor unfortunate man in his position serve a lady like you?"

"He defended me against robbers, single-handed."

"Ah," said the old man, glowing with pride, and looking more beautiful
than ever, "he was always as brave as a lion."

"That is nothing; he saved my life again, and again, and again."

"God bless him for it! and God bless you for coming and telling me of it!
Oh, madam, he was always brave, and gentle, and just, and good; so noble,
so unfortunate."

And the old man began to cry.

Helen's bosom heaved, and it cost her a bitter struggle not to throw her
arms around the dear old man's neck and cry with him. But she came
prepared for a sore trial of her feelings, and she clinched her hands and
teeth, and would not give way an inch.

"Tell me how he saved your life, madam."

"He was in the ship, and in the boat, with me."

"Ah, ma