'Well,' he said hesitatingly, 'it is not easy, at a moment's notice, to point out a suitable solicitor; there are many, of course, very desirable gentlemen, but I feel it, my dear Sir, a very serious responsibility naming one for so peculiar a matter. But you shall not, in the meantime, go to the wall for want of advice. Rely upon it, we'll do the best we can for you,' he continued, in a patronising way, with his chin raised, and extending his hand kindly to shake that of the parson. 'Yes, I certainly will--you must have advice. Can you give me two hours to-morrow evening--say to tea--if you will do me the honour. My friend, Captain Lake, dines at Brandon to-morrow. He's staying here with me, you are aware, on a visit; but we shall be quite by ourselves, say at seven o'clock. Bring all your papers, and I'll get at the root of the business, and see, if possible, in each particular case, what line is best to be adopted.' 'How can I thank you, my dear Sir,' cried gentle William Wylder, his countenance actually beaming with delight and gratitude--a brighter look than it had worn for many weeks. 'Oh, don't--_pray_ don't mention it. I assure you, it is a happiness to me to be of any little use; and, really, I don't see how you could possibly hold your own among the parties who are pressing you without professional advice.' 'I feel,' said the poor vicar, and his eyes filled as he smiled, and his lip quivered a little--'I feel as if my prayer for direction and deliverance were answered at last. Oh! my dear Sir, I have suffered a great deal; but something assures me I am rescued, and shall have a quiet mind once more--I am now in safe and able hands.' And he shook the safe and able, and rather large, hands of the amiable attorney in both his. 'You make too much of it, my dear Sir. I should at any time be most happy to advise you,' said Mr. Larkin, with a lofty and pleased benevolence, 'and with great pleasure, _provisionally_, until we can hit upon a satisfactory solicitor with a little more time at his disposal, I undertake the management of your case.' 'Thank Heaven!' again said the vicar, who had not let go his hands. 'And it is so delightful to have for my guide a Christian man, who, even were I so disposed, would not lend himself to an unworthy or questionable defence; and although at this moment it is not in my power to reward your invaluable assistance----' 'Now really, my dear Sir, I must insist--no more of this, I beseech you. I do most earnestly insist that you promise me you will never mention the matter of professional remuneration more, until, at least, I press it, which, rely upon it, will not be for a good while.' The attorney's smile plainly said, that his 'good while' meant in fact 'never.' 'This is, indeed, unimaginable kindness. How _have_ I deserved so wonderful a blessing!'