that the rich brewer would take him in; there was every reason to
suspect that Peter would arrange to have the marriage quietly
annulled. At most he could get a few thousands, perhaps only
hundreds, by threatening a scandal. Yes, it would be wise, on
the whole, to keep little Hilda on the string.

``I am very ill,'' he said gloomily, ``but I will go.''

Sophie felt hopeful and energetic again. ``I won't come up to
her till you leave her.''

``You are a good girl--a noble creature.'' Mr. Feuerstein took
her hand and pretended to be profoundly moved by her friendship.

Sophie gave him a look of simplicity and warm-heartedness. Her
talent for acting had not been spoiled by a stage experience.
``Hilda's my friend,'' she said earnestly. ``And I want to see
her happy.''

``Noble creature !'' exclaimed Mr. Feuerstein. ``May God reward
you!'' And he dashed his hand across his eyes.

He went to the mirror on his bureau, carefully arranged the
yellow aureole, carefully adjusted the soft light hat. Then with
feeble step he descended the stairs. As he moved down the street
his face was mournful and his shoulders were drooped--a stage
invalid. When Hilda saw him coming she started up and gave a
little cry of delight; but as she noted his woebegone appearance,
a very real paleness came to her cheeks and very real tears to
her great dark eyes.