the
kind of people whom it's easy to help. A case like Mrs. Abbott's is far
worse, yet there's such a difficulty in doing anything; one might only
give offence. I'm sure my name must be hateful to her--as it is to so
many.'

Rolfe listened with a secret surprise. He had never thought ill of Mrs
Frothingham; but, on the other hand, had never attributed to her any
save superficial qualities, a lightsome temper, pleasure in
hospitality, an easy good nature towards all the people of her
acquaintance. He would not have supposed her capable of substantial
sacrifices; least of all, on behalf of strangers and inspired by a
principle. She spoke with the simplest sincerity; it was impossible to
suspect her motives. The careless liking with which he had always
regarded her was now infused with respect; he became gravely attentive,
and answered in a softer voice.

'She was embittered at first, but is overcoming it. To tell you the
truth, I think she will benefit by this trial. I don't like the words
that are so often used in cant; I don't believe that misery does any
good to most people--indeed, I know very well that it generally does
harm. But Mrs. Abbott seems to be an exception; she has a good deal of
character; and there were circumstances--well, I will only say that she
faces the change in her life very bravely.'

'I do wish I knew her. But I daren't ask that. It's too much to expect
that she could bear to see me and listen to what I have to say.'

'The less she's reminded of the past the better, I think.'

'But would it not be possible to do something? I am told that the sum
was about fifteen hundred pounds. The whole of that I couldn't restore;
but half of it--I could afford so much. Could I offer to do so--not
directly, in my own name, but through you?'

Harvey reflected, his head and body bent forward, his hands folded
together. In the flat beneath, someone was jingling operetta on a piano
not quite in tune; the pertinacious vivacity of the airs interfered
with Harvey's desire to view things seriously. He had begun to wonder
how large a capital Mrs. Frothingham had at her command. Was it not
probable that she could as easily bestow fifteen hundred pounds as the
half of that sum? But the question was unworthy. If in truth she had
set herself to undo as much as possible of the wrong perpetrated by her
husband, Mrs. Frothingham might well limit her benefactions, be her
fortune what it might.

'I will do whatever you