How cheap it was--five guineas for so much instant delight and
such boundless joy of anticipation!

On one of the benches in Trafalgar Square he sat for a long time
watching the fountains, and ever and anon letting them lead his eyes
upwards to the great snowy clouds that gleamed upon the profound
blue. Some ragged children were at play near him; he searched his
pocket, collected coppers and small silver, and with a friendly cry
of "Holloa, you ragamuffins!" scattered amazement and delight.

St. Martin's Church told him that the hour was turned of six. Then a
purpose that had hung vaguely in his mind like a golden mist took
form and substance. He set off to walk northward, came out into
Holborn, and loitered in the neighbourhood of a certain place of
business, which of late he had many times observed. It was not long
that he had to wait. Presently there came forth someone whom he
knew, and with quick steps he gained her side.

Eve Madeley perceived him without surprise.

"Yes," he said, "I am here again. If it's disagreeable to you, tell
me, and I will go my own way at once."

"I have no wish to send you away," she answered, with a smile of
self-possession. "But all the same, I think it would be wiser if you
did go."

"Ah, then, if you leave me to judge for myself----! You look tired
this evening. I have something to say to you; let us turn for a