"But," said Ellen, presently, lifting her head again (there were no tears) "I cannot go without money."

"That can be obtained without any difficulty."

"From whom? I cannot ask Aunt Fortune for it, Mrs. Vawse; I could not do it."

"There is no difficulty about the money. Show your letters to
Mr. Humphreys."

"Oh, I cannot!" said Ellen, covering her face again.

"Will you let me do it? I will speak to him if you permit me."

"But what use? He ought not to give me the money, Mrs. Vawse. It would not be right; and to show him the letters would be like asking him for it. Oh, I can't bear to do that!"

"He would give it you, Ellen, with the greatest pleasure."

"Oh, no, Mrs. Vawse!" said Ellen, bursting into tears; "he would never be pleased to send me away from him! I know I know he would miss me. Oh, what shall I do?"

"Not that, my dear Ellen," said the old lady, coming to her, and gently stroking her head with both hands. "You must do what is right; and you know it cannot be but that will be the best and happiest for you in the end."