capable at nineteen. He was telling her what a high profession
the actor's was, how great he was as an actor, how commonplace
her life there, how beautiful he could make it if only he had
money. It was an experience to hear Mr. Feuerstein say the word
``money.'' Elocution could go no further in surcharging five
letters with contempt. His was one of those lofty natures that
scorn all such matters of intimate concern to the humble,
hard-pressed little human animal as food, clothing and shelter.
He so loathed money that he would not deign to work for it, and
as rapidly as possible got rid of any that came into his
possession.

``Yes, my adorable little princess,'' he rolled out, in the tones
which wove a spell over Hilda. ``I adore you. How strange that
_I_ should have wandered into THIS region for my soul's
bride--and should have found her!''

Hilda pressed his clasping hand and her heart fluttered. But she
was as silent and shy as Heilig with her. What words had she fit
to express response to these exalted emotions? ``I--I feel it,''
she said timidly. ``But I can't say it to you. You must think
me very foolish.''

``No--you need not speak. I know what you would say. Our hearts
speak each to the other without words, my beautiful jewel. And
what do you think your parents will say?''

``I--I don't know,'' stammered Hilda.

``They are so set on my marrying''--she glanced toward Otto--how