Holcroft, with the simple tact which genuine kindness usually suggests, was attentive to his bride, but managed, by no slight effort for him, to engage the two men in general conversation, so that Alida might have time to recover her composure. His quiet, matter-of-fact bearing was reassuring in itself. A cup of strong tea and a little old currant wine, which Watterly insisted on her taking, brightened her up not a little. Indeed her weakness was now largely due to the want of nourishment suited to her feeble condition. Moreover, both nerves and mind found relief and rest in the consciousness that the decisive step had been taken. She was no longer shuddering and recoiling from a past in which each day had revealed more disheartening elements. Her face was now toward a future that promised a refuge, security, and even hope. The quiet meal was soon over. Holcroft put a five-dollar bill in the hands of the justice, who filled in a certificate and departed, feeling that the afternoon had not been spent in vain. "Jim," said Watterly, drawing his friend aside, "you'll want to make some purchases. You know she's only what she wears. How are you off for money?" "Well, Tom, you know I didn't expect anything of this kind when--" "Of course I know it. Will fifty answer?" "Yes. You're a good friend. I'll return it in a day or two." "Return it when you're a mind to. I say, Alida, I want you to take this. Jim Holcroft can't get married and his bride not receive a present from me," and he put ten dollars in her hand. Tears rushed to her eyes as she turned them inquiringly to Holcroft to know what she should do. "Now see here, Tom, you've done too much for us already." "Shut up, Jim Holcroft! Don't you end the day by hurting my feelings! It's perfectly right and proper for me to do this. Goodby, Alida. I don't believe you'll ever be sorry you found your way to my hotel." Alida took his proffered hand, but could only falter, "I--I can never forget." Chapter XX. Uncle Jonathan's Impression of the Bride "Now, Alida," said Holcroft, as they drove away, "remember that we are two middle-aged, sensible people. At least I'm middle-aged, and fairly sensible, too, I hope. You'll need to buy some things, and I want you to get all you need. Don't stint yourself, and you needn't hurry so as to get tired, for we shall have moonlight and there's no use trying to get home before dark. Is there any particular store which you'd like to go to?" "No, sir; only I'd rather go over on the east side of the town where I'm not known." "That suits me, for it's the side nearest home and I AM known there." "Perhaps--perhaps you also would rather go this evening where you are not known," she said hesitatingly. "It makes no difference to me. In fact I know of a place where you'll have a good choice at reasonable rates." "I'll go where you wish," she said quietly.