CHAPTER V.
"Mr.Lusignan," said he, "the last time I was here you gave me some hopes that you might be prevailed on to trust that angel's health and happiness to my care." "Well, Dr.Staines, I will not beat about the bush with you.

My judgment is still against this marriage; you need not look so alarmed; it does not follow I shall forbid it.

I feel I have hardly a right to, for my Rosa might be in her grave now but for you; and, another thing, when I interfered between you two I had no proof you were a man of ability; I had only your sweetheart's word for that; and I never knew a case before where a young lady's swan did not turn out a goose.

Your rare ability gives you another chance in the professional battle that is before you; indeed, it puts a different face on the whole matter.

I still think it premature.