My purpose in coming here is perfectly proper, yet the request was not advanced as a right, but merely as a special privilege." A moment Hampton hesitated; then he arose and quietly crossed the room, holding open the door.

Without a word being spoken the minister followed, and stood beside him.

For several minutes the eyes of both men rested upon the girl's sleeping form and upturned face.

Then Wynkoop drew silently back, and Hampton closed the door noiselessly.
"Well," he said, inquiringly, "what does all this mean ?" The minister hesitated as if doubtful how best to explain the nature of his rather embarrassing mission, his gaze upon the strong face of the man fronting him so sternly.
"Let us sit down again," he said at last, "and I will try to make my purpose sufficiently clear.

I am not here to mince words, nor do I believe you to be the kind of a man who would respect me if I did.