I had seen these gold pieces I did not understand, or did not realize,
that such a human family existed: now I am persuaded of it, and as I
alone am to blame for having brought this charge against you, I must now
ask your forgiveness. We rejoice at your innocence, and hope with
increased love to atone for our injustice. My son," he concluded,
placing a hand on my shoulder, "I am now deeply in your debt."

"I am glad it has ended so happily," I replied, wondering whether his
being in my debt would increase my chances with Yoletta or not.

Seeing him again directing curious glances at the stylograph, which I
was turning about in my fingers, I offered it to him.

He examined it with interest.

"I have only been waiting for an opportunity," he said, "to look closely
at this wonderful contrivance, for I had perceived that your writing was
not made with a pencil, but with a fluid. It is black polished stone,
beautifully fashioned and encircled with gold bands, and contains the
writing-fluid within itself. This surprises me as much as anything you
have told me."

"Allow me to make you a present of it," said I, seeing him so taken with
it.

"No, not so," he returned. "But I should greatly like to possess it, and
will keep it if I may bestow in return something you desire."

Yoletta's hand was really the only thing in life I desired, but it was
too early to speak yet, as I knew nothing about their matrimonial