pathy--an undefined horror and dread
while standing in the presence of the
eccentric stranger, which made him very
unwilling to say anything which might
reasonably prove offensive.

'I have no doubt,' said Gerard, after
two or three prefatory hems, 'that the
connection which you propose would prove
alike advantageous and honourable to my
niece; but you must be aware that she has
a will of her own, and may not acquiesce
in what WE may design for her advantage.'

'Do not seek to deceive me, Sir Painter,'
said Vanderhausen; 'you are her guardian
--she is your ward. She is mine if YOU like
to make her so.'

The man of Rotterdam moved forward
a little as he spoke, and Gerard Douw, he
scarce knew why, inwardly prayed for the
speedy return of Schalken.

'I desire,' said the mysterious gentleman,
'to place in your hands at once an
evidence of my wealth, and a security for
my liberal dealing with your niece. The
lad will return in a minute or two with a
sum in value five times the fortune which