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 but that it was a great mistake. He certainly had a little money, but it was invested in such a way, that he could not touch the capital, and during the last years he had lived rather extravagantly.

'But if it is impossible for you to get the money, what then?'

'Well, darling, then it is pretty bad, but don't you worry. I shall get the money somehow. Only it is very disagreeable while it lasts.'

We were now sitting together on the sofa, talking the matter over in a wise way, and I was soon quite happy again. It seemed to me he was nearer to me than ever before, now that he had confided to me all these intimate worries.

But when I said to him : 'You will do me a great service, if for the future you will stop spending so much for my sake, I don't care either for presents or for fine dinners,' he kissed me and said smilingly: 'It is very dear of you to say that, but you must not think for a moment that you have ruined me. No, dear child, the little you and I have spent would neither make nor mar my fortune.'

Shortly after, when he offered me a glass of wine, he added, 'if you think I can allow myself so mad an extravagance.'

4$th$

HAVE seen very little of him during the last few days. He has been busy with his affairs, and besides had to pay a great many calls.

I have been patient and tried to take my fate