“And so,” resumed the Secretary, “if you would speak with her alone before we go away from here, I feel quite sure that a natural and easy confidence would arise between you. Of course you would not be asked to betray it; and of course you would not, if you were. But if you do not object to put this question to her⁠—to ascertain for us her own feeling in this one matter⁠—you can do so at a far greater advantage than I or any else could. Mr. Boffin is anxious on the subject. And I am,” added the Secretary after a moment, “for a special reason, very anxious.”

“I shall be happy, Mr. Rokesmith,” returned Bella, “to be of the least use; for I feel, after the serious scene of today, that I am useless enough in this world.”

“Don’t say that,” urged the Secretary.

“Oh, but I mean that,” said Bella, raising her eyebrows.