Cecil never allotted two seconds' thought to his own embarrassments, but he would multiply them tenfold by taking other people's on him as well, with an unremitting and thoughtless good nature.
"I couldn't help it," pleaded the lad, with coaxing and almost piteous apology.

"I backed Grosvenor's play, and you know he's always the most wonderful luck in the world.

I couldn't tell he'd go a crowner and have such cards as he had.

How shall I get the money, Bertie?
I daren't ask the governor; and besides I told Poulteney he should have it this morning.

What do you think if I sold the mare?
But then I couldn't sell her in a minute----" Cecil laughed a little, but his eyes, as they rested on the lad's young, fair, womanish face, were very gentle under the long shade of their lashes.
"Sell the mare! Nonsense! How should anybody live without a hack?
I can pull you through, I dare say.