wish to protect the children of his friend.  The duty that he would have performed devolves upon me.  I will deposit five thousand dollars with Mr. Talbot, for their use, subject to your order, should any unhappy emergency occur.  I say their use, bearing in mind the possibility that Floracita may reappear, though that seems very unlikely.  But, my friends, I wish to bind you, by the most solemn promise, never to mention my name in connection with this transaction, and never to give any possible clew to it.  I wish you also to conceal my having come here to inquire concerning them.  If they ever need assistance, I do not wish them to know or conjecture who their benefactor is.  If you have occasion to call for the money, merely say that an old friend of their father’s deposited it for their use.”

“I will solemnly pledge myself to secrecy,” answered the Signor; “and though secrets are not considered very safe with women, I believe Madame may be trusted to any extent, where the welfare of these girls is concerned.”

“I think you might say rather more than that, my friend,” rejoined Madame.  “But that will do.  I promise to do in all respects as the young gentleman has requested, though I trust and believe that his precautions will prove needless.  Mr. Fitzgerald is very wealthy, and I cannot suppose it possible that he would ever allow Rosabella to want for anything.”

“That may be,” replied Mr. King.  “But storms come up suddenly in the sunniest skies, as was the case with poor Mr. Royal.  If Mr. Fitzgerald’s love remains constant, he may fail, or he may die, without making provision for her manumission or support.”

“That is very true,” answered the Signor.  “How much forecast you Yankees have!”

“I should hardly deserve that compliment, my friends, if I failed to supply you with the necessary means to carry out my wishes.”  He put two hundred dollars into the hands of each, saying, “You will keep me informed on the subject; and if Mrs. Fitzgerald should be ill or in trouble, your will go to her.”

They remonstrated, saying it was too much.  “Take it then for what you have done,” replied he.

When he had gone, Madame said, “Do you suppose he does all this on account of the friendship of their fathers?”

“He’s an uncommon son, if he does,” replied the Signor.  “But I’m glad Rosabella has such a firm anchor to the windward if a storm should come.”

Mr. King sought Mr. Talbot again, and placed five thousand dollars in his hands, with the necessary forms and instructions, adding:  “Should any unforeseen emergency render a larger sum necessary, please to advance it, and draw on me.  I am obliged to sail for Smyrna soon, on business, or I would not trouble you to attend to this.”

Mr. Talbot smiled significantly, as he said, “These young ladies must be very charming, to inspire so deep an interest in their welfare.”