by a polite insolence toward the others, which they with difficulty
ignored, and a lover-like gallantry toward Edith, which was like
nettles to Gus, and nauseating to her; but she did not dare resent it.
He could at least torment her a little longer.

At last all were gone, and her father coming in from his club said,
drawing her aside:

"All right yet?"

"Yes, but I hope the ordeal will be over soon, or I shall die with
disgust, or, like some I have read of in fairy stories, be killed by a
poisonous breath."

"Keep it up a little longer, that is a good, brave girl. I think that
by another week we shall be able to defy him," said her father in
cheerful tones. "If my stock rises as much in the next few days as of
late, I shall soon be on _terra firma_."

If he had known that the mine beneath his feet was loaded, and the
fuse fired, his full face would have become as pale as it was florid
with wine and the dissipation of the evening.

Monday morning came--all seemed quiet. His stock was rising so rapidly
that he determined to hold on a little longer.

Goulden met and congratulated him, saying that he had bought a little
himself, and would take more if Mr. Allen would sell, as now he was
easier in funds than when spoken to before on the subject.