"None," said Basil; and added hastily, "or very little."
"You have been unfortunate since your return home?"
"Very unfortunate."
She opened her purse, and took out a sovereign and held it out to him.
"Thank you no," said Basil, his wonder growing.
"You are changed indeed," said the woman, "to refuse money. It is honestly come by. Two years ago I was married, and my husband, who died a year afterwards, left me a small income. It was more than I deserved, for I deceived him by telling him I was a widow. It made no difference, but still it was a deceit. Will you not take it?"
"No."
"And yet you need it?"
"Do not urge me further. Good night."
"Wait one moment. I was going to tell you to-night; but you had best see for yourself. It is your right. Here is my address; my mother and sister live with me. Come and see me to-morrow morning at ten o'clock. Promise me."