I have not been particularly so, but if you think I have, I want you to promise me that you will not try again to make me tell you this thing you have asked to-night, and that you will not try to find it out from any one else,--my father or mother, for instance." To such an appeal there was but one reply possible.

"Forgive me for distressing you.

Of course I will promise," I said.

"I would never have asked you if I had fancied it could distress you.

But do you blame me for being curious ?" "I do not blame you at all." "And some time," I added, "if I do not tease you, you may tell me of your own accord.