I have only done what I thought best!' 'But, Auntie, you have paid away more than half your little fortune.

I know all the figures.

Father and uncle told me everything.

Why did you do it?
Why did you do it ?' The old woman held out her arms as she said: 'Come here, dear one, and sit on my knee as you used to when you were a child, and I will whisper you.' Stephen sprang from her seat and almost threw herself into the loving arms.

For a few seconds the two, clasped tight to each other's heart, rocked gently to and fro.