There is an aunt, perhaps, or an uncle or two; and sometimes,
even to-day, there is the chance Samaritan."

Van Bibber picked up his high hat from the table, looked
into it critically, and settled it on his head. "Good-night,"
he said, and walked slowly towards the door. He had his hand
on the knob, when Mr. Caruthers raised his head.

"Wait just one minute, please, Mr. Van Bibber?" asked Mr.
Caruthers.

Van Bibber stopped with a prompt obedience which would
have led one to conclude that he might have put on his hat
only to precipitate matters.

"Before you go," said Mr. Caruthers, grudgingly, "I want
to say--I want you to understand my position."

"Oh, that's all right," said Van Bibber, lightly, opening
the door.

"No, it is not all right. One moment, please. I do not
intend that you shall go away from here with the idea that you
have tried to do me a service, and that I have been unable to
appreciate it, and that you are a much-abused and much-
misunderstood young man. Since you have done me the honor to
make my affairs your business, I would prefer that you should
understand them fully. I do not care to have you discuss my
conduct at clubs and afternoon teas with young women until
you--"