"The name of the place where, and of the person with whom I lived, is my secret," I replied concisely.

     "Which, if you like, you have, in my opinion, a right to keep, both from St. John and every other questioner," remarked Diana.

     "Yet if I know nothing about you or your history, I cannot help you," he said. "And you need help, do you not?"

     "I need it, and I seek it so far, sir, that some true philanthropist will put me in the way of getting work which I can do, and the remuneration for which will keep me, if but in the barest necessaries of life."

     "I know not whether I am a true philanthropist; yet I am willing to aid you to the utmost of my power in a purpose so honest. First, then, tell me what you have been accustomed to do, and what you can do."

     I had now swallowed my tea. I was mightily refreshed by the beverage; as much so as a giant with wine: it gave new tone to my unstrung nerves, and enabled me to address this penetrating young judge steadily.