George Alden was a brave man, never quailing at danger, but when he thought of his humiliation he moaned in agony of spirit.
"I am only a bank clerk," he said, "but is that reason why this man's daughter should be injured by my society? I love her, and I'll have her, too, in spite of her father."
[CHAPTER VII.]
THE CRUEL THUNDERBOLT.
"Belle, what does this mean? How dare that fellow pollute your lips with a kiss?" angrily asked Mr. Hamblin as the door closed behind him.
"Father," replied Belle quickly, "George Alden is a noble man, and inspired by honorable impulses. His touch is not pollution."
Senator Hamblin was filled with rage; his face became scarlet; his lips trembled, and raising his hand he exclaimed:
"Go to your room! If he dares to repeat the scene of this evening I will send the presumptuous puppy adrift. No employé of mine must presume upon stealing my treasure. My daughter must select her companions from a higher circle than that of book-keepers."