She spoke of the play and asked him if he had enjoyed the French song, "Rendez-moi ma patrie," and Edward told her that never in his life had he enjoyed anything so much. Their lunch was a dainty one, served by a colored maid, and after drinking a small glass of fine wine, Edward felt the most happy sensations tingling through his whole nervous system. All the poetry of which his nature was capable came to the surface, and he was surprised himself at the way he could speak to Nellie. He spoke of his dreams when he left home, and she told him that she would help him to realize them, and he believed every word she said. The whole afternoon was spent in the most delightful tête-à-tête, and when darkness came, Edward was surprised that it was so late. Upon leaving her it was agreed that on the morrow they were to take up the question of his future life in Chicago. After holding her hand in a caressing way, he bade her good-by, and the next instant he knew that the charm had left him. He was seized with a chill, caused by the Michigan Lake breeze, and the delightful intoxication of a moment ago gave way to the feeling of morose unhappiness. He felt a great shame come over his soul when he remembered that he had sworn to Nellie that never in his life had he loved any one but her; again Marie Louise's image came to him, and he walked to his hotel, carrying a great load of unhappiness and misery. At the hotel Benjamin was waiting for him, waiting with a satisfied smile upon his face, the very picture of contentment. "Well, Ed, everything is fixed. My work is not much, and I am given a free course in medicine. I attended the first lecture to-day, and I can't tell how glad I am, my boy! How about you?" he asked. "Oh! I don't know yet--I may not remain in Chicago, Ben," answered Edward, trying not to appear too discouraged. "Why? Can't she help you to get some employment, Ed?" "Will see to-morrow," answered Edward, going to his room, where he threw himself upon the bed, and felt much like sobbing. His head upon his hands, he remained in that position for a long while, thinking over the situation. He did not have the fascinating presence of that wonderful woman, Nellie, to brace him up, and the future seemed very dark indeed. Suppose she could not find him a position? What would he do? His money was nearly all gone. He would not allow her to support him. His manhood revolted at that thought.