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a good spirit," said Mr. Stanton, "but I really don't see how an early marriage would interfere with his resolutions on that point. He could go on working." "His income is insufficient just at present," said Helene, "and it will be until next year. The marriage cannot take place till then. I am sorry." "Some time next winter, eh? That's a long time, Helene; so many things may happen," said Mr. Stanton thoughtfully. "What could happen?" asked Helene in surprise. "What do you mean?" "I don't know; I'm nervous and apprehensive. I want to see you married and settled," replied her father almost peevishly, as if he didn't want to go into explanations. "I've a curious notion that I want to see you married and settled. It's a--a--my anxiety for you, Helene," added Mr. Stanton, forcing a smile. "You're very kind," repeated Helene. She did not understand her father in the least. He seemed to be afraid of something, his manner was distinctly apprehensive. She moved slowly toward the door, deep in thought. "Are you going?" asked Mr. Stanton. "My music master is waiting for me," replied Helene. "Your music master? Oh, yes, you said you'd taken up your studies again." Helene smiled. "You can hardly call it taking up my studies," she said. "Herr Von Barwig just--so to speak--goes over; I hardly know how to describe it. I think he tries to improve my technique." Was it imagination or had her father turned ashen pale? He looked at her, barely able to speak; he seemed to have received an awful shock and he was gasping for breath. What had happened? There was a pause during which Helene wondered why she had not noticed before how pale and ill her father looked, and how his hands trembled. "What did you say was his name?" asked Mr. Stanton, barely able to repress the emotion in his voice. "Professor Von Barwig. Oh, he's not known here as well as he was in Germany! What's the matter, father?" she cried out as the man almost tottered into his chair. "Father, father! what is it?" "Nothing, nothing; what should be the matter? I--these attacks come periodically now. A little heart trouble--it will soon pass away. Ring for Joles!" She obeyed him instantly. "Good God, good God! Is it possible? Right under my own roof!" muttered Stanton, "and with her! Oh, God!" "I rang for him, father," said Helene, looking at him anxiously. "It's Ditson I want to see. Ditson, Ditson! not Joles."
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