You have been unfortunate, my child." "Ah--yes." "Well, well, you are very young; we must not be too severe upon youth.
You will never do so again ?" "Do what, please you, sir ?" "What! Humph! I mean that you will be more rigid, more circumspect.

Men are deceitful; you must be on your guard against them.

You are handsome, child, very handsome--more's the pity." And the banker took Alice's hand and pressed it with great unction.

Alice looked at him gravely and drew the hand away instinctively.
The banker lowered his spectacles, and gazed at her without their aid; his eyes were still fine and expressive.

"What is your name ?" he asked.
"Alice--Alice Darvil, sir." "Well, Alice, we have been considering what is best for you.