"Was it your intention, Mr. Storndale, to come to me so soon after your marriage?" "I had no settled intention when to come, sir, but I have been forced to it sooner than I expected." "What has forced you to it?" "Writs. I give you my word they are flying about, and I am afraid I shall have to fly too. When needs must, you know, sir." "Are you heavily in debt?" "To the tune of three thousand, sir." "When a question of this kind is asked, the answer is generally below the mark." "True enough, sir, but I am pretty close to it this time. Ruth's an angel, but she's a sensible woman as well. She made me put everything down." "If I settle the claims against you"--the young man looked up with a flush on his face--"you will get into debt again." "I'll try not to, sir." "Honestly, Mr. Storndale?" "Honestly, Mr. Cohen. Ruth will keep me straight." "Leave me your address. I will come and see you to-night at eight o'clock. Make out a clear and truthful list of your debts; omit nothing. Meanwhile----" He wrote a cheque, and handed it to the young man, who received it in astonishment, which deepened when he saw the amount for which it was drawn. He was in no way prepared for such liberality and such a reception as he had met with. "I don't know how to thank you, sir." "Take care of Ruth. Be kind and considerate to her." "I will do my best, sir." He shook hands gratefully with Aaron, and with a light heart went to gladden his young wife with the good news. CHAPTER XL. A DUTY PERFORMED.