rather you are putting a fresh weight upon Virginia. If by her I can be
redeemed, and by me only you can be redeemed, then that untried girl is
charged with the redemption of both of us--a singular tax for one whose
redemption was originally my own care."

He agreed with me that the position was unusual, but affirmed with
energy that he had truly stated it so far as he was concerned. "I owe
you, sir," he said, "the dearest thing a lad can possess, which is his
self-respect restored, his courage reborn. In the light of your
approbation I can face even my miserable trade and hope to grow up as I
should. If you cast me off I am undone----"after which, as I made no
immediate reply, with a pretty gesture, as of a girl wheedling for a
favour, he touched my cheek with his hand and begged me to take him with
me to Arezzo. I told him I would consider of it; but made no promise.




CHAPTER XXXVI

MY UNREHEARSED EFFECT AND ITS MIDNIGHT SEQUEL


I do not know whether any other man in the world has been so unfortunate
as I in making resolutions and finding opportunities to break them, but
I am persuaded none can have made more abundant use of his occasions. My
only consolation is that my performances have been exemplary, since
punishment has ever followed hot-foot upon the offence.

Let it be observed that on the eve of my public appearance upon the