to part with any of the jewelry, Ropes?"

"No, sir."

"I thought, perhaps, by way of helping you, I would take the earrings,
and perhaps the necklace, off your hands and present them to Mrs.
Sampson."

Rodney shuddered with aversion at the idea of these precious articles,
which had once belonged to his mother, being transferred to the stout
and coarse featured consort of the principal.

"I think I would rather keep them," he replied.

"Oh well, just as you please," said Dr. Sampson with a shade of
disappointment for he had no idea of paying more than half what the
articles were worth. "If the time comes when you wish to dispose of them
let me know."

Rodney nodded, but did not answer in words.

"Of course, Ropes," went on the doctor in a perfunctory way, "I am very
sorry for you. I shall miss you, and, if I could afford it, I would tell
you to stay without charge. But I am a poor man."

"Yes," said Rodney hastily, "I understand. I thank you for your words
but would not under any circumstances accept such a favor at your
hands."

"I am afraid you are proud, Ropes. Pride is--ahem--a wrong feeling."