"I appreciate your devotion, I do, indeed, Mr. de Brabazon," said Florence, earnestly; "but I must decline your offer. I will not marry without love." "I don't mind that," said Percy, "if you'll agree to take a feller; you'll learn in time to like him a little. I am wich--I know you don't care for that--but I can give you as good a home as your uncle. If you would give me hope--aw----" "I am afraid I cannot, Mr. de Brabazon, but if you will allow me to look upon you as a friend, I will call upon you if I have need of a friend's services." "Will you, weally?" "Yes, there is my hand on it. I ought to tell you that I must now earn my own living, and am to give lessons to a young pupil in West ---- Street, three hours daily." "You don't mean to say you are actually poor?" said Mr. de Brabazon, horrified. "Yes, indeed, I am." "Then, won't you let me lend you some money? I've got more than I need, I have, 'pon my honor." "Thank you, I promise to call upon you if I need it." Mr. de Brabazon looked pleased. "Would you mind telling me where you are going to teach, Miss Florence?" Florence hesitated, but there was something so sincere and friendly in the young man's manner--dude though he was--that she consented to grant his request. "I am to teach the daughter of Mr. Robert Leighton." "Why, Miss Leighton is my cousin," said Percy, in joyous excitement. "Indeed! Had I known that I would hardly have told you." "Don't be afwaid! I will be vewy discreet," said Mr. de Brabazon. "Thank you, and good-morning." Florence went on her way, cheered and encouraged in spite of herself, by her success in obtaining employment, and by the friendly offers of Mr. de Brabazon.