Nevertheless Indian nature is exceedingly wary and suspicious in all important matters, and it struck him that Hayoue was trying to dissuade him from his project of union with Mitsha.

Knowing the propensities of his gallant uncle in the matter of women, he began to suspect that the latter might wish to estrange him from the girl or frighten him off in order to step into his shoes.

So he assumed an air of quiet indifference and said,-- "I think it is better, after all, not to see Mitsha any more." With this he attempted to rise; but Hayoue held him back, and spoke very earnestly,-- "No; it would not be well.

You are fit for each other, and you must come together.

I will help you all I can." "Can you help me ?" Okoya exclaimed, delightfully surprised.
"Perhaps I can, perhaps not.