In Hamilton's place, I should have preferred trying to embrace St.
George's dragon rather than the girl standing before him.

Hamilton bowed with humility and said: "Please do not fear. Sit down and
hear me out. I shall not detain you long."

She sat down, seeming to feel that notwithstanding her recent admission,
there was no danger of further unseemly demonstration on Hamilton's part.

"I want to say," continued Hamilton, "that while Baron Ned spoke the
truth, I have never been guilty of the crimes which it is said some of my
friends have committed. I am unworthy enough in every respect, but I am
innocent of murder and robbery. I shall mend my ways from now on. I don't
ask you to believe in me, but when I am at all worthy of your kind
regard, I shall tell you, and you _may_ believe me, for from this day
forth I shall try to be as truthful as Baron Ned. No man can be more so."

Frances sighed and answered, "I hope so."

Hamilton again took her hand, which she now permitted him to retain, and
continued: "If I am ever so fortunate as to gain wealth and position
worthy of you, I shall kneel at your feet, if you are free to hear me. If
the good fortune never comes, this will be our farewell."

"I hope the good fortune will come soon, for your sake, and--" But she
did not finish.

"Yes, yes, and--and--?" asked George, pleadingly.

"Yes, and for my own sake," she answered, turning her face from him,