"She doesn't know it's five hundred," said the unhappy man; "she thinks it's fifty." 

 "Don't worry," said George; "I'll tell her everything." 

 "She thinks," he mumbled with a foolish laugh, "that Old Joe left me fifty pounds a year to improve my education, because I'm so studious!" 

 George laughed now. "I wonder what she'll say," he cried, "when I tell her the truth!" 

 Busby seized his wrist with dramatic savagery. "She must never know!" he hissed. 

 "Let go my wrist, you silly fool!" cried George; "you're pinching me. And don't breathe in my ear." 

 "She must never know," repeated Busby, folding his arms; "it would break up the home, and part us for ever. She couldn't bear to think I'd deceived her, and I dare say she'd waste away and break her heart. I should, too; and you'd be responsible for two deaths. Promise me, Early, that you'll keep your mouth shut, at least for to-night." 

 George covered his eyes with one hand and endeavoured to brace himself up for the effort. 

 "I'll try," he said nobly; "but I may break down in the morning; I can't be sure of myself." 

 "That won't matter," said Busby, "you won't be here then." 

 "I'm afraid I shall," said George; "you see, I unfortunately came out without any money to take me home, so I shall have to ask you to put me up for the night." 

 Busby viewed this prospect with cold disapproval, and after some discussion prevailed upon George Early to accept the loan of a half-sovereign to take a cab home. Having arrived at this satisfactory stage they entered the little front gate of the Busby cottage, George having insisted on keeping his appointment at supper. 

 Two hours later he left, accompanied to the front gate by his friend, whose hand he shook repeatedly, finally waving him farewell across the square. 

 "What a nice man!" cried Mrs. Busby; "and how fond he is of you, Albert!" 

 Albert's answer was not distinguishable. 

  Chapter IV—Three Worms that turned 

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