"I wish to inquire after Mr. Stillinghast's health," he said, quietly.

A few minutes' drive brought them to Mr. Stillinghast's door. Helen
heard the carriage stop, and her toilette, as usual, being very
becomingly and carefully made--for Helen never forgot her
_self-homage_--she met them at the door. Her countenance had assumed a
sad and mournful expression, and in answer to their inquiries, she
spoke in an agitated and subdued tone.

"It is horrible. I did not hear a word of it until to-day. I was
dreadfully shocked," said Mrs. Jerrold, kissing her cheek.

"How is Mr. Stillinghast now, dear Helen?" asked Walter Jerrold,
folding her hand closer in his own.

"They fear he is sinking," said Helen, in the same tone of counterfeit
feeling.

"How melancholy!" said Mrs. Jerrold, taking possession of the corner of
the sofa, almost dying with curiosity.

"Has he inquired after me, do you know Helen?"

"I have not heard."

"I thought, perhaps, he might wish to see me in relation to the firm,
and its concerns; though every thing has been conducted with such
strict regularity, that I do not suppose it is necessary."

"Perhaps as May has been with him all the time, she can give you some