future depends on my getting into that room within the next half-hour. But never mind! Why should you bother?—Besides, what does it matter? I've seen you again. You'll speak to me as you come back? I'll wait all night for a word."
"Don't be so silly," said the Girl; but she smiled very prettily, and her dear eyes sparkled. "If it's really important, I'll fix it for you! But why does your future depend on it, and all that?"
"I have to meet a lady," said the wretched young man.
"The one you were with at the masked ball? The nun? Yes—I made Papa take me. Is it that one?" Her tone was imperious, but it was anxious too.
He looked imploringly at her. "Yes, but—"
"You shall have the shoes, all the same," she interrupted, and turned away before he could add a word.
A moment later the grey-bearded gentleman was bowing to him.
"My girl tells me you're in a corner for want of shoes. Sir. Mine are at your service—we
