“Stop there?”

“Yes.”

“But I haven’t your authority, and they’d turn me out.”

“Ah, dear me, how powerless I am—​how very powerless!” cried Laura, in a tone of sadness; “I’m at his mercy—​and he would not scruple to do anything.”

“I’ll help you as far as lies in my power,” said Rawton; “that you may depend upon.”

“Do, there’s a good creature; for I need help just now—​and I know I can rely upon you.”

The gipsy put five sovereigns into her hand, which she slid into the pocket of her dress.

“That will be enough to go on with, I suppose?” observed he.

“Oh, yes, more than enough; where did you get them from?”

“Charlie.”