“Reward, Mr Vining?” stammered Ella.
“Yes!” exclaimed Charley, his rich deep voice growing softer as he spoke. “And but for those words upon the reverse side, I would have kept the cross as an emblem of my hope. I, too, had a mother who is but a memory now. But you will grant me what I ask?”
“Mr Vining,” said Ella gravely, but unable to conceal her agitation, “will you kindly lead me back to the drawing-room?”
“I thank you for restoring me the cross, which I had never hoped to see again.”
She held out her hand, and the little ornament was immediately placed within her palm.
“You see,” said Charley, “I trust to your honour. I am defenceless now, but you will give me my guerdon?”
“Reward?” said Ella again.
“Yes,” said Charley eagerly; “I do not ask much. That rose that you have worn the evening through: give me that—I ask no more.”
“Mr Vining,” said the agitated girl, “I am poor and friendless, and here as a dependent. I say thus much, since I believe you to be a gentleman. You would not wilfully injure me, I am sure; but this prolonged absence may give umbrage to my employers. Once more, pray lead me back!”
Charley was moved by the appeal, and he turned on the instant.