I only ask permission to make myself of some trifling use to you." She looked at me again, and altered her first opinion.
"You are very kind, sir; I will thankfully accept your assistance." "May I offer you my arm ?" She declined this proposal--with perfect amiability, however.

"Thank you, sir, I will follow you, if you please." I pushed my way through the crowd, with the charming stranger close at my heels.

Arrived at the post-office, I drew aside to let her make her own inquiries.

Would she mention her name?
No; she handed in a passport, and asked if there was a letter waiting for the person named in it.

The letter was found; but was not immediately delivered.