He gazed at her in mournful surprise and gratitude as he replied:
“This is very generous and noble in you, dear Amber, as well as most unexpected; but it would be very improper for me to accept your offer. Still, I thank you from my heart, although I must decline!”
“But, Cecil, I will not permit you to decline! I insist on giving you this money, which is entirely my own. It need not offend your pride, for I can bestow this gift upon you, and no one shall ever know of it. We will keep the secret in our own hearts,” urged Amber, tenderly and anxiously, adding:
“Think of your mother and accept it for her sake!”
He was touched to the heart by her noble generosity. He felt that he had never fully appreciated Amber Laurens at her best.
But he was resolute in his refusal.
“I thank you more than I can say, but I could never accept such a gift from you, my noble friend,” he answered.
“Then, Cecil, let me lend you the money, to be repaid at your leisure! You can at least accept this favor from one whom, next to Violet, you have promised a place in your heart.”
“Do not speak to me of Violet. Let me forget her fatal mistake if I can, in the distress of this other calamity!” he cried, feverishly.
“I will not breathe that false girl’s name to you again, my poor, unhappy Cecil; but I insist upon lending you the money. I shall be wounded if you refuse it,” persisted Amber.