"I am only too glad I have come in good time to assist you. To continue about Emilia. What does such a woman as she value most in the world? Her good name. You have jeopardized hers, Gerald, with the best intentions I admit, but jeopardized it is. Hearing the scandal she will naturally ask herself, 'Why did Gerald take me into his house when I was in a fainting condition, and unable to have a voice in the matter? Could he not have waited till I recovered? And now see what people are saying of me? He has degraded me; I shall never be able to look honest people in the face again.' Is it entirely unnatural, my boy, that she should not rush into your arms when you present yourself? Just think a bit." "I have not thought of it in that light," said Gerald ruefully. "Because you have considered it from your point of view, not from hers. Answer me candidly. If she had been in possession of her senses would she have consented to enter your house clandestinely with you at such an hour last night--you, a single man, and her lover?" "No, I see it now. Wretch that I am! I deserved to be pilloried for it." "Don't rush into the other extreme. You acted unwisely, but honestly." (Leonard had no more belief in the professions he was making than Mrs. Seaton would have had, but he knew the nature of the man he was playing upon.) "Now, what you want in this crisis is a friend like myself, who, a stranger to your Emilia, can explain everything to her in a considerate, sensible way. Otherwise she may refuse to have anything more to say to you." This suggestion frightened Gerald. "What do you advise me to do?" he asked. "To place yourself entirely in my hands, and let _me_ bring this unfortunate matter to a satisfactory conclusion." "I will do so, Len. Thank you a thousand, thousand times. I am eternally grateful to you." "Nonsense. I love you, Gerald; our interests are one. Look at yourself in the glass; you are a perfect scarecrow." "I have had no sleep since the night before last. "Is that a fit condition in which to set about a task so delicate? It would be inviting failure. First, you must have some breakfast." "I can't eat, Len." "You must. A devilled bone and a glass or two of champagne." He rang the bell, and gave the order, and ordered also a warm bath to be prepared. "Now, Gerald. The bath first, the devilled bone and a pint of champagne next, and then to bed for two or three hours. When you awake, refreshed and with a clear mind, I will tell you all about Emilia." "You will find out where she is?" "I will--if it is to be found out." "And you will explain everything to her?" "I will." "And you will tell her I love her more devotedly than ever?" "I will; and that your only wish is to hear the wedding bells ring." "You're a good fellow, Len. I can never repay you. You are my good angel. But what a selfish brute I am, to talk only of myself and my troubles. You cabled for money, Len, and it was sent to you. How's the exchequer?"