ntend to go? Since you
have resolved to leave us, I desire to know in what way I can aid you,
or contribute to the comfort of the journey you contemplate."

"From the last letter of Professor V----, declining your proposal that
he should come here and instruct me, I learn that within the ensuing
ten days he will sail for Havre, _en route_ to Italy, where he intends
spending the winter. If possible, I wish to reach New York before his
departure, and to accompany him. The thousand dollars will defray my
expenses until I have completed my musical training, which will fit me
for the stage, and insure an early engagement in some operatic
company. Knowing your high estimate of Professor V----, both as a
gentleman and as a musician, I am exceedingly anxious to place myself
under his protection; especially since his wife and children will meet
him at Paris, and go on to Naples. Are you willing to give me a letter
of introduction, commending me to his favorable consideration?"

The hesitating timidity with which this request was uttered, touched
him more painfully than aught that had ever passed between them.

"My dear child, did you suppose that I would permit you to travel
alone to New York, and thrust yourself upon the notice of strangers? I
will accompany you whenever you go, and not only present you to the
professor, but request him to receive you into his family as a member
of his home-circle."

A quiver shook out the hard lines around her lips, and she turned her
eyes full on his.

"You are very kind, sir, but that is not necessary; and a letter of
introduction will have the same effect, and save you from a
disagreeable trip. Your time is too valuable to be wasted on such
journeys, and I have no right to expect that solely on my account you
should tear yourself away--from--those dear to you."

"I think my time could not be more profitably employed than in
promoting the happiness and welfare of my adopted sister, who was so
inexpressibly dear to my noble Janet. It is neither pleasant nor
proper for a young lady to travel without an escort."

He had risen, and laid his hand lightly on the back of her chair.

"She smiled; but he could see arise
Her soul from far adown her eyes,
Prepared as if for sacrifice."

"Is it a mercy, think you, Dr. Grey, to foster a fastidiousness
that can only barb the shafts of penury? What right have toiling
paupers to harbor in their thoughts those dainty scruples that
belong ap