out permission.'

A clutch of the hand was the answer, and Percy then showed him the
accounts only waiting for his signature.

The money advanced was nearer five thousand pounds than four; and
Arthur, pointing to the amount, inquired, by look and gesture, 'Where
does it come from?'

'Never mind; it was honestly come by. It is a lot that has accumulated
out of publishing money, and was always bothering me with railway
shares. It will do as well in your keeping.'

'It is throwing it into a gulf.'

'In your father's, then. I will take care of myself, and speak when I
want it. Don't trouble your father about it till he sees his way.'

'I must give you my bond.'

'As you please, but there is no hurry.'

Arthur, however, was bent on giving his signature at once, and, as he
looked towards his wife and child, said, 'For their sakes, thank you.'

'I did it for their sakes,' said Percy, gruffly, perhaps to check
Arthur's agitation; but as if repenting of what sounded harsh, he took
the infant in his arms, saying to Violet, 'You have a fine fellow here!
Eyes and forehead--his father all over!'

Arthur held out his hand eagerly. 'Let him be your godson--make him like
any one but me.'

Percy took two turns in the room before he could answer. 'My godson, by
all means, and thank you; but you will have the making of him yourself.
You are much better than I expected.'

Arthur shook his head; but Violet, with a look, sufficient reward for
anything, said, 'It is you that are making him better.'

He replied by inquiries about the christening. The baby was a day less
than four weeks old, and Violet was anxious to have him baptized; so
that it was arranged that it should take place immediately on Percy's
return from Worthbourne, whither he was to proceed that same afternoon,
having hitherto been delayed by Arthur's affairs. This settled, he took
leave. Arthur fervently pressed his hand, and, as Violet adjusted the
pillows, sank his head among them as if courting rest, raising his eyes
once more to his 'friend in need,' and saying, 'I shall sleep now.'

Violet only hoped that Mr. Fotheringham understood what inexpressible
gratitude was conveyed in those words, only to be appreciated after
watching those six wakeful, straining days and nights.

Meantime, Theodora waited in fear, too great at first to leave space for
other thoughts; but as time past, other memories returned. On coming to
summon Percy she had found him standing