"The alternative presented to you last night and this morning was sent as a trial, Ishmael; such a trial as I think every man must encounter once in his life, as a decisive test of his spirit. Even our Saviour was tempted, offered all the kingdoms of this world, and the glory of them, if he would fall down and worship Satan. But he rebuked the tempter and the Devil fled from him."
"And angels came and ministered to him," said Ishmael, in a voice of ineffable tenderness, as the tears filled his eyes and he approached his arm toward Bee. His impulse was to draw her to his bosom and press a kiss on her brow—as a brother's embrace of a loved sister; but Ishmael's nature was as refined and delicate as it was fervent and earnest; and he abstained from this caress; he said instead:
"You are my guardian angel, Bee. I have felt it long, little sister; you never fail in a crisis!"
"And while I live I never will, Ishmael. You will not need man's help, for you will help yourself, but what woman may do to aid and comfort, that will I do for you, my brother,"
"What a heavenly spirit is yours, Bee," said Ishmael fervently.
"And now let us talk of business, please," said practical little Bee, who never indulged in sentiment long. "That poor mother! You give her your services—gratuitously of course?"
"Certainly," said Ishmael.
"But, apart from her counsel's fee, will she not have other expenses to meet in conducting this suit?"
"Yes."
"How will she meet them?"