In its light a serious difficulty passed, and the doing of a thing which had a fear of its own became easy.

With a conviction in her tone, which in itself aided her immediate purpose, she said: 'I shall prove it to you.

That is, if you will not mind doing something which will save me an embarrassment.' 'You know I will do anything, my dearest, which an old woman can do for a young one!' Stephen squeezed the mittened hand which she held as she went on: 'As I said, I have promised to lend him some money.

The first instalment is to be given him to-morrow; he is to call for it in the afternoon.

Will you give it to him for me ?' 'Gladly, my dear,' said the old lady, much relieved.