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 own relatives, who, I truly believe, would have shortened his life if they could. He knew this, and feared it even more than was reasonable. Once, my longing for my country grew such that it overcame me, and I told my uncle I must, I must come to America. He pleaded with me—imagine an old man, whose life was one long stretch of pain and fear, pleading with you until he fell prone in a paroxysm of despair! I, too, was in despair, and I promised him I would remain with him during his life.—I hardly knew what I was saying—I was not twenty-one at the time—but I knew well enough after it was said. I kept my word, and I nursed him through his last illness and closed his eyes in death. Then, as soon as all was over, I sailed for America. I feel now as if I never wished to see Europe again."

"And did Baron von Hesselt realise the enormous sacrifice you made for him?"

"Yes—that is, partly."

"Your aunt certainly was most unjust to you," said Thorndyke, coolly. "I mean, that provision robbing you of all your fortune in case you marry an American."

"Yes, very unjust," replied Constance, with equal