As he muttered something indefinite, she added, "What's your book?"
holding out her hand. "Burma, I declare! One does not hear much of
that part of the world; it's always connected in my mind with rice and
rain. Douglas," suddenly raising her eyes, "I believe you have
something on your mind. What is it? Come now--speak out--is it a love
affair, or money? You know I'm _safe_."

Thus invited, in a few halting sentences, he told her of his friend's
good offices, the offer, his supreme delight--and subsequent despair.

"A hundred pounds--yes, well, it's a tidy sum," she admitted, "and you
will want all that. I think Gregory and Co. might pay your passage, as
the salary is not large."

"No," agreed Shafto, "but I'll be only too glad to earn it. It's this
blessed ready money that stumps me."

He began to pace about the room with his hands in his pockets, then
suddenly broke out:

"Mrs. Malone, I'd give one of my eyes to go; to be up and doing, and
get out into the world--especially to the East. Isn't it hard
lines--one moment to be offered a splendid chance, and the next to have
it snatched away."

"I suppose you couldn't borrow?" she suggested, looking at him over her
spectacles.

"No, who would lend _me_ money? I have no security and no wealthy
friends."