"May it be blessed to you, Helen, come when it will; but while _he_
lives, let his generous intentions in your favor purchase at _least_
your respect," said May, in a tone of bitter reproof, for at the moment
she recollected Helen's threat some weeks before to get into her
uncle's chamber, if possible, and she feared that she had accomplished
her object at the expense of all that was honorable in feeling, and
just in principle.

"May, you won't say anything--about--about what I just blundered out
concerning the--" said Helen, confused and stammering.

"No, Helen; I have nothing to say. It was natural, though not
delicate, for Mr. Jerrold to impart such information to you. No doubt
he thought it would enhance your happiness," said May, settling herself
in her uncle's chair.

"That's a good May. Oh, May, if you were not such a little fanatic how
I should love you," said Helen, stooping over to kiss May's forehead;
but she put up her hand, and the kiss fell on the tips of her fingers.
But her very indignation, although just, humbled her, for with a flash
of thought, she was in Gethsemane, and saw the meek and Divine Jesus
receive the kiss of Judas. "Why, then," she thought, "should _I_
shrink back from one who needs my pity more than my hate?"

"I shall sit up a little longer, Helen. I feel quite uneasy about
Uncle Stillinghast. Good night," she said, holding out her hand to
Helen.

"What a curious little one you are, May," said Helen, holding the tiny
hand a moment in her own; "but do come up soon, for really I am afraid