He had paid frequent visits to the house in which Bessie and her friend resided, and had at all times taken great interest in them; and therefore, Bessie, who was the most self-possessed of the two, had no compunction in seeking his advice on the present occasion. “She’s had a legacy――a little money left her,” said Bessie, “and my advice is that she sees no more of that wretch of a husband of hers, but go up to London at once, and see if she can get something to do.” “The best advice you can give her.” “And I’ve brought with me a fifty pound note, which we don’t know where to get changed. Perhaps you can oblige us?” She handed him the note――not, however, without some misgivings. He looked carefully at it, and appeared perfectly satisfied. “I have not so much money about me, but I can give you a cheque if that will do. You can get it changed before you return.” “Oh, thank you, Sir! That would be indeed a favour.” “Not at all,” said her companion, carelessly. “Happy to have it in my power to oblige you.” He drew the cheque for the required sum, and handed it to the girl. Then, with a smile, he said―― “Then, I suppose I am going to lose sight of you ladies.” “Oh dear, I hope not, Sir!” “Umph! Do you go with your friend?” “I have not decided as yet. Poor thing! She is sadly borne down just now, and needs some one to be with her. I suppose I had better see her on her journey.” Mr. Chipp nodded assent to this proposition, and murmured―― “Yes, it would be better for you to do so.” “You see, we are not at all busy at the factory,” said Bessie; “and I can be well spared, for a short time at all events.” “It does not appear to me that they are busy anywhere,” observed her companion. “I shall not remain much longer in this town, but return to London before next week is over. Have you heard or seen anything of the fiddler?” He alluded to Peace, whom he had, since the night of the concert, invariably designated as the fiddler. “I have not heard from him lately,” answered Bessie, carelessly. The gentleman smiled, but made no further inquiries. Bessie now took her departure, and bent her steps in the direction of the bank. Upon presenting the cheque, she elected to take the amount in gold. She then returned to her aunt’s residence, and made Mrs. Bristow acquainted with the successful nature of her expedition. In a few days after this the two women started off for the metropolis.