proper times of suitable companions of her own age, but the
society of those who lead her into temptation is not
suitable." Aladdin fairly wilted under the glowering voice.
"You will not be allowed to associate with her any more," said
the senator. "I will speak to your father and see that he
forbids it."

Aladdin climbed out of the chair, and stumbled blindly into
the table. He had meant to find the door and go.

"Wait; I have not done," said the senator.

Aladdin turned and faced the enemy who was taking away the joy
of life from him.

"In trying to atone for your fault," said the senator, "by
imperiling your life, you did at once a foolhardy and a fine
thing--one which I will do my best to repay at any time that
you may see fit to call upon me. For the present you may find
this of use." He held forward between his thumb and
forefinger a twenty-dollar gold piece. Aladdin groped for
words, and remembered a phrase which he had heard his own
father return to a tormentor. He thrust his red hands into
his tight pockets, and with trembling lips looked up.

"It's a matter of pride," he said, and walked out of the room.
When he had gone the senator took from his pocket a leather
purse, opened it, put back the gold piece, and carefully tied
the string. Then far from any known key or tune the great man
whistled a few notes. Could his constituents have heard, they