Have you heard any more from your creditor ?" "Things remain, as far as he is concerned, in _statu quo_; and I am no nearer being able to satisfy him to-day than I was a week ago; unless, indeed--" "All I have to say," said Rosalind nervously, "is, that I would work like a slave to help you, if I could." "Is that all ?" asked the captain with falling face.
"You know it is, father.

You knew it a week ago.

You knew I would even go to this man and on my knees beg him to be merciful." Her father laughed dismally.
"In other words," said he, "you can do nothing.

I do not complain; I expected nothing, and I have not been disappointed.

I was foolish to think such a thing possible; Heaven knows I have been punished for my folly." She tried hard to keep back the tears, and rose to go.
"Stay!" said he sternly; "I have a question to ask you.