strong a man as you are. But, Tu, if you knew how absolutely I rely on
your judgment, you would humour my folly and say yes."

There was a subtle incense of love and flattery about this appeal
which, backed as it was by a look of tenderness and beauty, made it
irresistible; and the arrangements for the journey were made in strict
accordance with Jasmine's wishes.

On arriving at the inn which was so full of chastening memories to
Jasmine, Tu sent his card to Mr. King, who, flattered by the attention
paid him by so eminent a scholar, cordially invited Tu to his house.

"To what," he said, as Tu, responding to his invitation, entered
his reception-hall, "am I to attribute the honour of receiving your
illustrious steps in my mean apartments?"

"I have heard," said Tu, "that the beautiful Miss King is your
Excellency's cousin, and having a friend who is desirous of gaining her
hand, I have come to plead on his behalf."

"I regret to say," replied King, "that your Excellency has come too
late, as she has already received an engagement token from a Mr. Wen,
who passed here lately on his way to Peking."

"Mr. Wen is a friend of mine also," said Tu, "and it was because I knew
that his troth was already plighted that I ventured to come on behalf of
him of whom I have spoken."

"Mr. Wen," said King, "is a gentleman and a scholar, and having given a
betrothal present, he is certain to communicate with us direct in case