It was not for two or three minutes that Dr. Demarest was able to resume his position by the side of Miss Contoit.
“I had to set myself right,” he began, abruptly, “because if we really are friends I want you to help me.”
“I shall be very glad, I’m sure,” she replied. “I’ve told you so already.”
“But what I want is something very serious,” he continued.
“What is it?” she asked, drawing away from him a little.
“It’s advice,” he explained.
She gave a light laugh of relief. “Oh, advice,” she repeated; “anybody can give advice.”
“Not the advice I want,” he responded, gravely. “It’s a very solemn thing for me, I can assure you.”
“And what is this very solemn thing?” she inquired, airily.
“It’s marriage,” he answered. “I’ve got to get married, and—and—”