"You are very kind, sir, but that is not necessary; and a letter of introduction will have the same effect, and save you from a disagreeable trip. Your time is too valuable to be wasted on such journeys, and I have no right to expect that solely on my account you should tear yourself away--from--those dear to you." "I think my time could not be more profitably employed than in promoting the happiness and welfare of my adopted sister, who was so inexpressibly dear to my noble Janet. It is neither pleasant nor proper for a young lady to travel without an escort." He had risen, and laid his hand lightly on the back of her chair. "She smiled; but he could see arise Her soul from far adown her eyes, Prepared as if for sacrifice." "Is it a mercy, think you, Dr. Grey, to foster a fastidiousness that can only barb the shafts of penury? What right have toiling paupers to harbor in their thoughts those dainty scruples that belong appropriately to princesses and palaces? Why tell me that this, that, or the other step is not 'proper,' when you know that necessity goads me? Sir, I feel now like that isolated Florentine, and echo her words,-- ... 'And since help Must come to me from those who love me not, Farewell, all helpers. I must help myself, And am alone from henceforth.'" "You prefer that I should not accompany you to New York?" "Yes, sir; but I gratefully accept a letter to Professor V----." "Very well; it shall be in readiness when you wish it. Have you fixed any time for your departure?" "This is Friday,--and I shall go on the six o'clock train, Monday morning." "Is there any service that I can render you in the interim?" "No, thank you." "As you have no likeness of the children, would it be agreeable to you to have their photographs taken to-day,--and, at the same time, a picture of yourself to be left with them? If you desire it I will meet you in town, at the gallery, at any hour you may designate." Standing before him, she answered, almost scornfully,-- "I shall not have time. Some day--if I succeed--I will send them my photograph, taken in gorgeous robes as _prima donna_; provided you promise that said robes shall not constitute a _San Benito_, and doom the picture to the flames. I will detain you no longer, Dr. Grey, as the sole object of the interview has been accomplished."