“Well, I didn’t know what to do. I was afraid to make a public demand for her through the law, for then it would all get into the papers; it would be an awful disgrace, and the whole county would know it. So I waited, and a few weeks ago I went to London. A chance occurred at last which threw her in my way. I pointed out to her the awful nature of the life she was leading, and offered to forgive her all if she would only come back. The poor girl consented, and here she is. But I’m very much afraid,” said Potts in conclusion, with a deep sigh, “that her constitution is broken up. She’s very feeble.” Brandon said nothing. “Excuse me for troubling you with my domestic affairs; but I thought I ought to explain, for you have had such trouble with her yourself.” “Oh, don’t mention it. I quite pitied the poor child, I assure you; and I sincerely hope that the seclusion of this place, combined with the pure sea-air, may restore her spirits and invigorate her in mind as well as in body. And now, Mr. Potts, I will mention the little matter that brought me here. I have had business in Cornwall, and was on my way home when I received a letter summoning me to America. I may have to go to California. I have a very honest servant, whom I have quite a strong regard for, and I am anxious to put him in some good country house till I get back. I’m afraid to trust him in London, and I can’t take him with me. He is a Hindu, but speaks English and can do almost any thing. I at once remembered you, especially as you were close by me, and thought that In your large establishment you might find a place for him. How is it?” “My dear Sir, I shall be proud and happy. I should like, above all things, to have a man here who is recommended by one like you. The fact is, my servants are all miserable, and a good one can not often be had. I shall consider it a favor if I can get him.” “Well, that is all arranged--I have a regard for him, as I said before, and want to have him in a pleasant situation. His name is Asgeelo, but we are in the habit of calling him Cato--” “Cato! a very good name. Where is he now?” “At the hotel. I will send him to you at once,” said Brandon, rising. “The sooner the better,” returned Potts. “By-the-way, my junior speaks very encouragingly about the prospects of the Brandon Bank--” “Does he?” cried Potts, gleefully. “Well, I do believe we’re going ahead of every thing.” “That’s right. Boldness is the true way to success.” “Oh, never fear. We are bold enough.” “Good. But I am hurried, and I must go. I will send Asgeelo up, and give him a letter.” With these words Brandon bowed an adieu and departed. Before evening Asgeelo was installed as one of the servants. CHAPTER XLII LANGHETTI’S ATTEMPT. Two days after Brandon’s visit to Potts, Langhetti reached the village.