Mr. Home then told his wife the whole of his interview with Jasper Harman, and the proposal he had made to settle on Charlotte and on her children the three thousand pounds which had been her mother's for that mother's lifetime. "I gave him no answer, my Lottie," he said in conclusion. "I told him you were away--that I would tell you all on your return." "Then the decision is to rest with me, Angus?" "Yes, I think it must." "You do not mind whether I decline or accept?" "I trust you absolutely. You shall do as you think best." After this Mrs. Home was silent for a moment or two; then she got up, went on her knees by her husband's side, and laying her head against his breast, said,-- "We will be poor, my darling--poor and blessed. I will not touch their gold." "My Lottie!" he answered. He did not quite understand her, but his heart began to beat. "I will tell you all in a few words, Angus. I longed for money--be my reason base or noble, I longed for money. A month ago how sorely we needed it! God saw our need and sent it to us. He sent it through a channel and by a means which tried my proud heart. I accepted the gracious boon, and, when I accepted it, instantly I loved the giver; I loved--I love Charlotte Harman. She is innocent of all wrong. Angus, I cannot disturb her peace. My uncle has come home. My uncle, with his knowledge and his worldly skill, could now win my cause for me, and get back for me and mine what is ours. I will not let him. These old men may keep their ill-gotten wealth, for I cannot break the daughter's heart. I made my resolve at Torquay, Angus; and, though I own I have been tempted to-night--yes, I believe I have been tempted--still I must let this money go. I will leave those wicked men to God; but I cannot take their punishment into my own hands. And, Angus, dearest, neither can I take that small sum of money; for, though I cannot prosecute, neither can I accept a bribe. This money comes as a bribe. Is it not so?" "Yes, Lottie, I fear it is so." "I am right not to take it?" "You are absolutely right." "Then we will not touch it. I and mine can live without it." "You and yours can live well and nobly without it, my most precious wife." "Ah! there is rest and peace in my heart; and the little house, though so poor and shabby, seems very home-like. Angus, I am so tired after all this! I will go to bed." Long after his wife had left him, the husband remained up. He had gone down on his knees, and he remained there for some hours. He had to thank God for his Charlotte, but even while he thanked a weight was heavy on his heart. Sin was very terrible to this man, and he feared that a very grievous sin had been committed. Long, long, into the night he cried to God for these sinners. CHAPTER XXX. SHE COULD NOT POSTPONE HER ENGAGEMENT.