“Well, I’ll be blowed!” was the German’s only answer. “I am very much obliged to you for the money,” said Marion, coolly, as she turned toward the door, after bidding him “good-morning.” In a second a wave of disappointment and chagrin thrilled the manager’s frame; his face grew livid with rage as he took a step toward her. “So they have bought you off at ‘The Olio,’ have they?” he sneered. “You’ve gone back on your benefactor, you little country innocent!” “I have done nothing of the sort,” said Marion, with spirit. “I shall never sing in a concert hall again. I think it is dreadful! It is degrading!” She swept out of the door and into the street, leaving the astounded manager cursing like a madman. As quickly as Marion was safely out, she started for the office where her sister’s lover worked. There was joy at her heart that she was at last able to repay him. “The end almost justifies the means,” she whispered to herself, “but I could never sing there again, never, never!” Marion called Ralph outside into the little hallway. It was the first time they had met since Mrs. Haley told her story. As quick as she could, Marion tucked the one hundred dollars into his band. The young man drew back, alternately flushing and paling, but the brave girl put her hands behind her. “No, you must keep it, Ralph,” she said, firmly. “It is my duty to help clear up the cloud that hangs over you.” “But how can you do that?” asked the young man, candidly. “I stole the diamond and pawned it, and what is more, I don’t regret it!” Marion’s heart almost stopped beating for an instant, then she grasped his hand in both her own. “Let us go to your aunt together and I will explain,” she said, quickly. “We can stop for the diamond on the way, and, oh, Ralph, don’t you see the matter must be settled?” “Very well, Marion,” was Ralph’s answer, in a weary voice. “I’m ready to tell her, and I’ll be glad when it’s over.” “Then you will go with me, right away?” asked the young girl, quickly. Ralph Moore stopped suddenly and raised his head a trifle. “No, Marion!” he said, distinctly. “I’m not such a coward! I will take your money and restore my aunt her diamond, but I will tell her the truth myself and abide by her decision!” He looked so noble and manly that Marion’s heart thrilled as she looked at him. “Oh, Ralph!” she cried, brokenly, “don’t ever do such a thing again! Believe me, it is better to starve than to be dishonest!” A faint smile passed over the young man’s handsome features. “I am free to confess that I would starve before I would steal for myself,” he said, slowly, “but do you think I would hesitate when Dollie was starving?” Marion turned away. She had no words with which to answer him. She knew that he was wrong, yet she could not find it in her heart to censure him. “You will come and see her to-night, will you not?” she said, finally. “Poor child, she has been worrying terribly about you!”