s
the rendering of 'Caesar's things to Caesar' for two years, in order to
save the condemned the additional pang of regretting the generosity of
her minority! Human wills, intentions and aims, no matter how laudable
and well known, are blandly strangled by judicial red tape, and laid
away with pompous ceremonial in the dusty catacombs of legal form.
Grimly grotesque, this masquerade of equity! Something must be done for
Mr. Darrington, to enable him to finish his studies and embark on the
career his father designed."

"He is a man, and can learn to carve his way unaided."

She sighed wearily, and a troubled look crossed her face; while the
visitor followed with longing eyes the slow motion of her delicate
hand, beautiful as Herses', that softly stroked the cat purring against
her shoulder.

"Surely there is an outlet to this snare. You could help me if you
would."

"I? Do you imagine that after all the injuries I have inflicted on you,
I can consent to help you beggar yourself?"

"You know that I would sooner handle red-hot ploughshares, than touch a
dollar, a cent, of that fortune. It would greatly relieve my mind and
comfort me, if you would indicate some method by which I can convey to
Mr. Darrington that which really belongs to him. Unless he can enjoy
it, it might as well be in the grave now with its former owner. Do help
me."

The pathetic pleading of face and voice almost unnerved him, but he sat
silent.

"Cannot I dispose at least of the income or interest? If a definite
amount should be allowed me each year, during my minority, could I do
as I please with that sum?"

"Certainly you have that right. I may as well tell you, there is one
method of accomplishing your aim, by applying to the Legislature to
legalize your acts by declaring you of age. At present the estate is in
the hands of Mr. Wolverton, whom the Probate Court has appointed
administrator; and at the expiration of eighteen months from the date
of Gen'l Darrington's death, the control of the whole will devolve to
some extent upon you. Meanwhile the administrator will allow you
annually a reasonable amount."

"Do you know what sum Mr. Darrington required while abroad?"

"I am told his allowance was four thousand dollars per annum.
Histology, morphology, and aetiology are whims too costly for
impecunious students. Prince must reduce his stable of hobbies."

"No, he is entitled to canter as many as he likes, and the money could
not be bet