But you will recollect that I met her in the freshness of her young life, when she was surrounded by all the ease and elegance that a father's wealth and tenderness could bestow; and it was unavoidable that her subsequent misfortunes should excite my sympathy.

She has never told me anything of her own history, but from others I know all the particulars.

It is not my purpose to allude to them; but after suffering all she _has_ suffered, now that she has bravely made a standing-place for herself, and has such an arduous career before her, I appeal to your sense of honor, whether it is generous, whether it is manly, to do anything that will increase the difficulties of her position." "It is presumptuous in you, sir, to come here to teach me what is manly," rejoined Fitzgerald.
"I merely presented the case for the verdict of your own conscience," answered his visitor; "but I will again take the liberty to suggest for your consideration, that if you persecute this unfortunate young lady with professions you know are unwelcome, it must necessarily react in a very unpleasant way upon your own reputation, and consequently upon the happiness of your family." "You mistook your profession, sir.

You should have been a preacher," said Fitzgerald, with a sarcastic smile.

"I presume you propose to console the lady for her misfortunes; but let me tell you, sir, that whoever attempts to come between me and her will do it at his peril." "I respect Miss Royal too much to hear her name used in any such discussion," replied Mr.King.