upon you as long as you live?"

His face flushed hotly.

"Since you ask me," he answered, "I tell you frankly, no; I had not
thought of that part of the business at all--it never even occurred to
me; my thoughts were all otherwise engrossed."

"You should take it into consideration," said the magistrate. "I know
nothing of what your position in society may be, but remember, you
voluntarily cut yourself off from all association with even respectable
people; a man who has been in prison cannot expect the countenance or
fellowship of his fellow-men."

"I suppose you are right," replied the young man; "although, believe me,
never a thought of this occurred to me."

"Now, would it not be better to tell the truth? Have you done it for a
wager? is it the trick of a foolish young man? or were you really
tempted to steal the watch?"

Something like a smile curved his handsome lips.

"I cannot tell you," he replied. "I am deeply grateful for your kind
interest--indeed, 1 shall never forget it; but I cannot, in return, tell
you one word."

"Then I can do nothing to help you?"

"No," he answered slowly; "you could not help sending me for trial. Will