Perhaps in recognition of her having taken his part against idle reproaches, her father began, as soon as they were alone, to talk in a grave, earnest way about his affairs; and Madeline, who liked above all things to be respectfully treated, entered into the subject with dutiful consideration.

He showed her exactly how his misfortunes had accumulated, how this and that project had been a failure, what unadvised steps he had taken in fear of impending calamity Snugly seated at the little marble table, they grew very confidential indeed.

Mr.Denyer avowed his hope--the hope ever-retreating, though sometimes it had seemed within reach--of being able some day to find rest for the sole of his foot, to settle down with his family and enjoy a quiet close of life.

Possibly this undertaking at Vera Cruz would be his last exile; he explained it in detail, and dwelt on its promising aspects.

Madeline felt compassionate and remorseful.
Of her own intimate concerns no word was said, but it happened strangely enough, just as they had finished dinner, that Clifford Marsh came strolling into the restaurant.