He was shy and stammering. The words came haltingly with no eloquence to back them.

“From the first moment I saw you⁠—I⁠—I ought not to have spoken so soon⁠—but Mr. Van Aldin may leave here any day, and I might not have another chance. I know you can’t care for me so soon⁠—that is impossible. I dare say it is presumption anyway on my part. I have private means, but not very much⁠—no, please don’t answer now. I know what your answer would be. But in case I went away suddenly I just wanted you to know⁠—that I care.”

She was shaken⁠—touched. His manner was so gentle and appealing.

“There’s one thing more. I just wanted to say that if⁠—if you are ever in trouble, anything that I can do⁠—”

He took her hand in his, held it tightly for a minute, then dropped it and walked rapidly away towards the Casino without looking back.