fter she had paid her fare from Hounslow and the
incidental expenses of the journey. But she dared not say as much to her
companion. He thought her a fine lady. It might be wise to keep him in
this mind. If he knew she was as poor as he, there would be an end to
the pleasure of helping him. She felt sure he would accept nothing more
from her.

What was she to say? She could think of nothing. She felt bewildered.
At the same time the effort to face the difficulty did her good. It
revived her energy.

"Indeed there's no necessity for me to ride. I can walk quite well and
it is but a little distance to my home. You may see me across the fields
if you will and then we will say good-night."

"I'd better walk with you beyond the fields," he urged. "The streets are
just as dangerous for you as this desolate place."

"Oh no. There are sure to be plenty of people about! You shall go as far
as Cheapside, but not a step further."

Vane accepted the compromise, but when Cheapside was reached it was full
of a noisy throng and most of the crowd, both men and women, were the
worse for drink. He easily overcame her protest that she could proceed
alone and they went on to St. Paul's. Here it was comparatively quiet,
and she flatly refused to permit him to accompany her beyond the
Cathedral.

They passed the Chapter coffee house. Lavinia's thoughts reverted to her
warning to Vane on Moor Fields.

"You've not given me your promise to have nothing to do with that man--I
don't know his name and I don't want to--who made you drink too much
last night in there."

"I'll promise you anything," he cried pressing the arm which was within
his.

"Thank you, but that's not all. Swear that you will never drink too much
again. It makes me sad."

"On my honour I never will. I'd rather die than hurt you by word or
deed."

"Are you sure?" she returned with more concern in her voice than she
suspected.

"Sure? If I don't keep my word I should fear to face your anger."

"I shouldn't be angry, only sorry."

"I'd rather have your anger than your pity. I might pacify the first but
the second--while you are pitying me you might also despise me. I could
never endure that."

His voice trembled with genuine emotion. Lavinia put out her hand and he
caught it eagerly and raised it to his lips.

"You've made me happy," he cried, "you've given me fresh hope. I'll
promise you all you've asked. You must promise me one thing in return. I
can't los