"Certainly, Miss Alice," he answered.
"I can rely upon your honor that what passes between us shall be strictly confidential?"
"Yes, miss."
"You will not even reveal the fact that I met you?"
"I will not, but will not your aunt miss you?"
"No, she retired over an hour ago. She is a heavy sleeper; even the prospect of a visit from burglars would not keep her awake as long as the prospect was only a suspicion. She is a very brave lady; my aunt is a very remarkable woman."
"No doubt; but now what can I do for you?"
"A crisis compels me to be singularly frank with you."
"It is better so if I am to serve you in any way."
"I am about to make an extraordinary request."