"It is impossible for us to do so, at present," replied Gerard, in despair. "We have no other resource,—no way of living."
"But the bequest you came from America to receive?"
"We were disappointed of that. Our right has been disputed, and the matter is in the courts."
"Your relations in Quebec, and the estate concerning which you were in Philadelphia?"
"We quarrelled with our uncle in Quebec, and we would die before we would go back to his charity. Our share of the Philadelphia estate was a trifle, and was spent long ago."
"But you must leave Cassel! I shall find a way to provide for us all!"
"You forget," put in Catherine, "that my brother dare not leave without a discharge from the military service. He would be taken as a deserter, and shot. Trust me, Wetheral! I can hold the Landgrave aloof. His caprice will soon pass. You alone are in danger. It is best for us to stay till all can be properly arranged for our future somewhere else."
"Then if you stay, I stay!" said Dick, quietly. "I will act as if nothing had occurred, and await the consequences. After all, the Landgrave alone could have understood my meaning, when my miserable tongue so unjustly assailed you. The others would think my words merely the ravings of an unrequited lover. Yes, I will stay and see what comes of it!"
"Perhaps you are right," said Gerard.
"Thank God, then, we do not have to say farewell!" said Catherine, resting her eyes tenderly on