"I had a shock," she answered.
"Of what sort? Are you willing to make me your confidant? I do not ask out of curiosity, but because it may be in my power to serve you."
"I have so few friends that I will not decline your kind offer."
"You were coming from the house of Mr. Robert Ferguson?"
"Yes, sir; do you know him?"
"Quite well. I was myself going there."
"Is he considered—an honorable man?"
"Why, surely. What can lead you to doubt it?"
In answer Ruth told her story. The young lawyer listened in pained surprise. Strictly honorable himself, he found it hard to believe that a man whom he knew so well could be guilty of the meanness of defrauding two women whose interests had been confided to him. Yet the story seemed probable. Moreover, even had matters been as Mr. Ferguson represented, his want of feeling seemed almost as bad as absolute dishonesty. He asked Ruth several questions in order that he might become fully possessed of all particulars.
"This, then, was the cause of your agitation?" he said at length.