He came, and when the servant gave him the message at the door, he sent up craving permission to see her but for a moment. She could not refuse him, and went down to him in the drawing-room, with her shawl and bonnet.

“Dearest Margaret,” said he, “what is this?” and he took both her hands.

“I have received word that my brother, in London, is very ill,—that he is dying, and I must go to him.”

He still held her hands, standing close to her, as though he had some special right to comfort her.

“Cannot I go with you?” he said. “Let me; do let me.”

“Oh, no, Mr Maguire; it is impossible. What could you do? I am going to my brother’s house.”

“But have I not a right to be of help to you at such a time?” he asked.

“No, Mr Maguire; no right; certainly none as yet.”

“Oh! Margaret.”

“I’m sure you will see that I cannot talk of anything of that sort now.”

“But you will not be back for ever so long.”

“I cannot tell.”

“Oh! Margaret; you will not leave me in suspense? After bidding me wait a fortnight, you will not go away without telling me that you will be mine when you come back? One word will do it.”

“Mr Maguire, you really must excuse me now.”

“One word, Margaret; only one word,” and he still held her.

“Mr Maguire,” she said, tearing her hand from him, “I am astonished at you. I tell you that my brother is dying and you hold me here, and expect me to give you an answer about nonsense. I thought you were more manly.”

He saw that there was a flash in her eye as he stepped back; so he begged her pardon, and muttering something about hoping to hear from her soon, took his leave. Poor man! I do not see why she should not have accepted him, as she had made up her mind to do so. And to him, with his creditors, and in his present position, any certainty in this matter would have made so much difference!

At the Paddington station Miss Mackenzie was met by her other lover, Mr Rubb. Mr Rubb, however, had never yet declared himself as holding this position, and did not do so on the present occasion. Their conversation in the cab was wholly concerning her brother’s state, or nearly so. It seemed that there was no hope. Mr Rubb said that very clearly. As to time the doctor would say nothing certain; but he had declared that it might occur any day. The patient could never leave his bed again; but as his constitution was strong, he might remain in his present condition some weeks. He did not suffer much pain, or, at any rate, did not complain of much; but was very sad. Then Mr Rubb said one other word.

“I am afraid he is thinking of his wife and children.”