England long enough. He would never forget this
holiday, for he had learned what happiness life might have in store;
but it was a happiness that could not be attained by romantic dreams. He
must earn it by tense effort, and was willing to pay the price; this was
the reason he must get back to work. For all that, he had doubts, and
was glad when Muriel came along the terrace and sat down on the bench.

"You look unusually thoughtful," she said.

"I have something to think about. I find I must go back to Canada very
soon."

Muriel made an abrupt movement. "You are going away! But we thought--"
She paused and resumed: "Does Helen know?"

"Not yet; I must tell her. It will cost me something to leave, but I've
got to go. Perhaps you had better see what Kerr has to say."

He gave her the letter, and after waiting until she had read it, went
on: "I can't let this chance pass; I want the money."

"I think I understand," said Muriel. "Still you haven't told me much."

He was silent for a few moments and looked very grave, but she had for
some time imagined that he was bearing a strain.

"Well," he said, "I'm up against things and can't see my way. That is, I
do see where I mean to go, but don't know if I ought."

"The problem's not exactly new. However, if you will state it clearly."

"I'll try," said Festing. "One can trust you; in fact, I wanted to tell
you before."

He explained his difficulties, practical and moral, and when he finished
Muriel said: "It comes to this--You are in love with Helen and mean
to marry her, but hesitate because you fear she may find the life too
hard."

"It's a big risk for an English girl. She must give up everything, while
I have all to gain."

"But suppose she were willing?"

"The trouble is that she doesn't know what she may have to bear."

Muriel smiled. "It's a risk that many girls must run. But after all it
depends upon what she values most."

"Comfort, leisure, refined friends, and other things you enjoy here are
worth much to a girl."

"All this is true," Muriel agreed, and pausing, continued with a blush:
"Still these things don't satisfy every need, and perhaps my example may
be some encouragement. Fred isn't very clever and will probably never be
rich, but I'd sooner face poverty with him than marry a prince."

Festing bowed. "Thank you for that! Fred's a very good sort. I knew you
had pluck."

"I really think Helen is pluckier and stronger than me. But I imagine