It almost unmanned him now, almost broke his heart. "Don't, my
darling, don't look at me so," he said in low, moved tones, taking her
cold hands in his. "You don't know, precious one, how willingly your
father would bear all this pain for you if he could."

She threw herself upon his breast, and folding her close to his heart,
he caressed her with exceeding tenderness, calling her by every fond,
endearing name.

For many minutes she received it all passively, then suddenly raising
her head, she returned one passionate embrace, withdrew herself from
his arms, and hurried from the room.

He let her go unquestioned; he knew she went to seek comfort and
support from One nearer and dearer, and better able to give it
than himself. He rose and walked the room with a sad and troubled
countenance, and a heart filled with grief for his child, with anger
and indignation toward the wretch who had wrecked her happiness.

Miss Stanhope opened the door and looked in.

"You have had no dinner, Horace. It will be ready in a few moments."

"Thank you, aunt. I will go up to my room first and try to get rid of
some of the dust and dirt I have brought with me."

"Stay a moment, nephew. I am sorely troubled for the child. You don't
approve of her choice?"

"Very far from it. I have forbidden the man ever to come near her