the knights of old.' At all events you will hear the worst."

"I will go," said I, firmly; and I took my hat and left the room. As I
was passing the landing-place, a light step stole down the upper flight
of stairs, and a little hand seized my own. I turned quickly, and met
the full, dark, seriously sweet eyes of my cousin Blanche.

"Don't go away yet, Sisty," said she, coaxingly. "I have been waiting
for you, for I heard your voice, and did not like to come in and disturb
you."

"And why did you wait for me, my little Blanche?"

"Why! only to see you. But your eyes are red. Oh, cousin!" and before
I was aware of her childish impulse, she had sprung to my neck and
kissed me. Now Blanche was not like most children, and was very sparing
of her caresses. So it was out of the deeps of a kind heart that that
kiss came. I returned it without a word; and putting her down gently,
descended the stairs, and was in the streets. But I had not got far
before I heard my father's voice; and he came up, and hooking his arm
into mine, said, "Are there not two of us that suffer? Let us be
together!" I pressed his arm, and we walked on in silence. But when we
were near Trevanion's house, I said hesitatingly, "Would it not be
better, sir, that I went in alone? If there is to be an explanation
between Mr. Trevanion and myself, would it not seem as if your presence
implied either a request to him that would lower us both, or a doubt of
me that--"

"You will go in alone, of course; I will wait for you--"