"

"There is no ignominy in being wrongfully accused," I said--a little
guiltily, I must own, for Thorndyke's words came back to me with all
their force. But regardless of this I went on: "An acquittal will
restore him to his position with an unstained character, and nothing but
the recollection of a passing inconvenience to look back upon."

She gave her eyes a final wipe, and resolutely put away her
handkerchief.

"You have given me back my courage," she said, "and chased away my
terror. I cannot tell you how I feel your goodness, nor have I any
thank-offering to make, except the promise to be brave and patient
henceforth, and trust in you entirely."

She said this with such a grateful smile, and looked withal so sweet and
womanly that I was seized with an overpowering impulse to take her in my
arms. Instead of this I said with conscious feebleness: "I am more than
thankful to have been able to give you any encouragement--which you must
remember comes from me second-hand, after all. It is to Dr. Thorndyke
that we all look for ultimate deliverance."

"I know. But it is you who came to comfort me in my trouble, so, you
see, the honours are divided--and not divided quite equally, I fear, for
women are unreasoning creatures, as, no doubt, your experience has
informed you. I think I hear my aunt's voice, so you had better escape
before your retreat is cut off. But before you go, you must tell me how
and when I can see Reuben. I want to see him at the earliest possible
moment. Poor fellow! He must not be allowed to feel that his friends
have forgotten him even for a single instant."

"You can see him to-morrow, if you like," I said; and, casting my good
resolutions to the winds, I added: "I shall be going to see him myself,
and perhaps Dr. Thorndyke will go."

"Would you let me call at the Temple and go with you? Should I be much
in the way? It is rather an alarming thing to go to a prison alone."

"It is not to be thought of," I answered. "If you will call at the
Temple--it is on the way--we can drive to Holloway together. I suppose
you are resolved to go? It will be rather unpleasant, as you are
probably aware."

"I am quite resolved. What time shall I come to the Temple?"

"About two o'clock, if that will suit you."

"Very well. I will be punctual; and now you must go or you will be
caught."

She pushed me gently towards the door and, holding out her hand, said--
"I haven't thanked you half enough and I n