_might_, have been robbed on your way hither; I _may_ be robbed to-night."

"We young fellows are sadly deficient in prudence, Mr. Stillinghast, but
your suggestions shall not be lost on me," replied Mr. Jerrold,
pleasantly. Although Mr. Jerrold's visit was ostensibly one of business,
he was not at all inattentive to the presence of the cousins. His eye
lingered on the faultless face of Helen, until she lifted her large brown
eyes, and caught his glance, when a soft blush tinted her cheeks, and the
long fringed lids drooped over them. May dropped her handkerchief, which
he picked up, and handed to her with a courteous bow.

"I fear, ladies, that my awkward visit has interrupted some domestic
arrangement," he said, observing the tea-table.

"Not at all, sir," replied May, frankly.

"I beg a thousand pardons if I have; but good evening--good evening, Mr.
Stillinghast. I shall beg your permission, sir, to-morrow to consult you
about the investment of some funds I have lying idle."

"Of course, sir;" said Mr. Stillinghast, following him to the door. "A
rising young man! Come, come, make haste, and clear off the table; I
have accounts to look over."

"Come, dear Helen, it will be better for you to help a little," whispered
May. "Here is the evening paper, sir, and your pipe when you are ready,"
she said to her uncle.

"Humph!" was the only reply she received. When every thing was finished,
they bade him good night, and ran up to their chamber.