The woman was by no means mercenary. What she had done was simply a matter of kindness and humanity on her part, and she had never for a moment contemplated the matter in any other light than a natural desire on her part to assist a fallen creature who was plunged into the depths of trouble. However, after much persuasion on the part of our hero, she reluctantly pocketted the sovereign.
“I should indeed be sorry if by any chance these men should find you when you leave this house,” said the widow, “and therefore I think you had better remain till after dark.”
“I am afraid I am in your way,” returned the burglar.
“Not at all, sir. You can have a bed and remain all night if you think it advisable to do so.”
“There will be no necessity for that,” said he—“not the slightest necessity. But I tell you what you can do to serve me.”
“What?”
“Have you got anybody who can be trusted to go round to Mr. Simmonds?”
“Dear me, yes. My little girl will go at once, if you wish it.”
“Let her go, then.”
“By the back way?”