So, as I handed her back the letter, I said: "I know you will forgive me, Miss Trelawny, if I presume too much; but if you will permit me to aid in the watching I shall be proud.

Though the occasion is a sad one, I shall be so far happy to be allowed the privilege." Despite her manifest and painful effort at self-control, the red tide swept her face and neck.

Even her eyes seemed suffused, and in stern contrast with her pale cheeks when the tide had rolled back.

She answered in a low voice: "I shall be very grateful for your help!" Then in an afterthought she added: "But you must not let me be selfish in my need! I know you have many duties to engage you; and though I shall value your help highly--most highly--it would not be fair to monopolise your time." "As to that," I answered at once, "my time is yours.

I can for today easily arrange my work so that I can come here in the afternoon and stay till morning.