"You have done well, sir," said Delwood, calmly, as he placed double
the amount of Mrs. Santon's bribe in the Signor's hand; "you have done
well, sir; and mark my words,--gold can never relieve a guilty
conscience! Go, sir, and see that you lisp not a syllable of this to
any one."

Mr. Delwood was about to take his leave, when he was met by Winnie, who
tripped lightly in, fresh from a morning walk. He grasped her hand and
pressed it to his lips, saying,--"You have helped to do away with the
sinful impressions which did their best to fasten themselves upon me.
You will never be forgotten by me, and I know you will do your best to
protect _her_ from the wiles of this hard-hearted woman, of whose deeds
the world shall through me be none the wiser."

"I should be iron-hearted, did I not strive to make her happy; for it is
in pity for my father and his motherless child, that she consents to be
separated from her own loved family."

Mrs. Santon had never the impudence to inquire in what way this matter
terminated, but she could see that her machinations had been foiled, as
day after day brought Mr. Delwood a welcome visitor to the house; yet
this defeat did not subdue her bitter feelings towards the Sea-flower;
they only slumbered, to break out afresh on the first occasion that
might present. Natalie had observed the Signor's abrupt departure; she
knew that something must be amiss, and questioning Winnie in the matter,
she disclosed to her what never came to the ear of Mr. Santon:

"I forgive her," said the Sea-flower, "and I can pity her; for perhaps
she has never had dear friends who might teach her how to love."