I ventured to ask Miss Trelawny to count on me as a friend; to let me serve her should occasion arise.

She promised me that she would.

I had little idea that my chance of serving her should come so soon or in such a way; but that very night you were stricken down.

In her desolation and anxiety she sent for me!" I paused.

He continued to look at me as I went on: "When your letter of instructions was found, I offered my services.
They were accepted, as you know." "And these days, how did they pass for you ?" The question startled me.
There was in it something of Margaret's own voice and manner; something so greatly resembling her lighter moments that it brought out all the masculinity in me.