ceptable,"
said he, blandly; "and I wish you would give me the opportunity!"

And with that he bowed deeply, and walked slowly away. I returned to
London with a head full of my interview.

CHAPTER XXXII. MY REWARD

I had taken up my quarters in one of the small streets which lead from
the Strand to the river; a very humble abode it was, and such as suited
very humble fortune. When I arrived there, after the interview I have
related, I sat down and wrote a short account of the events of my life,
so far as they were known to me. I subjoined any letters and documents
that I possessed which gave confirmation to my statement, addressing the
entire to the minister, with the request that if my capacity could fit
me for any employment in the public service, he would graciously make
a trial of me; and if not, that he would enable me to return to France,
where a livelihood at least was procurable.

This I despatched on a Tuesday morning, and it was not until the
following Saturday that I obtained my reply. I cannot think of that
painful interval even now without a shudder. The torture of suspense
had risen to a fever, and for the last day and night I neither ate nor
slept. On Saturday came a brief note, in these words: "J. C. may call at
Hounslow before ten to-morrow."

It was not signed, nor even dated; and so I was left to surmise if it
had reached me in fitting time. It was scarcely eight o'clock on Sunday
morning as I found myself standing beside the wicket of the garden,
which seemed as deserted and desolate as before. At an open window,
however, on the ground floor I saw a breakfast-table laid out; and as I
looked, a lady and gentleman entered, and took their places at it. One
was, I knew, the minister. The lady, who was a tall and dignified person
rather than a handsome one, bore some resemblance to him. Her quick
glance detected me from afar, and as quickly she called attention to my
presence there. Mr. Pitt arose and beckoned me to come forward, which I
did, with no small shame and embarrassment.

While I stood at the hall-door, uncertain whether to knock or wait, it
was opened by the minister himself, who kindly wished me good-morning,
and desired me to follow him.

"This is the youth himself, Hester," said he, as we entered the room;
"and I have no doubt he will be happy to answer any questions you may
put to him."

The lady motioned to me to be seated, and in a grave, almost severe
tone, said,--

"Wh