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50 been placed, you discharged your lawyer and dropped the case. That was very wise and proper. And, in view of that fact, we have decided to be especially liberal toward you. We—we have usually paid to—to"

Whether his nerves had been unstrung by the sight of the death chamber, or whether his senses were being dulled by the fascination of magnetic eyes, of perfect, parted lips disclosing white and even teeth, of a feminine charm which appealed to him irresistibly; whatever may have been the cause, he had lost his easy loquacity and was stumbling along in a manner most unusual for him.

"We have generally paid," he repeated, "to widows of—of"

"Victims," she suggested.

"Yes; of victims of—of their own carelessness and lack of brains,—always as a gift—a gift pure and simple, you know—the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars."

"I understand," she said. "A pure and simple gift."

"Exactly."

"And a very munificent gift, considering the low social grade and primitive habits and general unworthiness of those who usually receive it." Stupid that he was, or stupefied, he did not come within a thousand miles of piercing the thin veil of her sarcasm.

"Very true," he replied. "But we recognize the fact that there have been peculiar hardships surrounding your case, and we desire to treat—you with still greater munificence."

"How extremely kind and considerate to an unfortunate victim of—circumstances."

"Yes; it is our purpose to be kind and considerate. Therefore we have decided—and as vice-president of the company I recommended the action—we have decided to make you a gift of four hundred dollars."

She lifted her hands as if in delighted astonishment.