Chapter VI

_The Laurels,
Putney Heath, S. W.
November 9._

MY DEAR ALICE,

I will not send the small sum which you ask me as a brother to
afford you, though I am well aware that it would save you very
poignant anxiety. My reason for acting thus is that a little
annoyance is caused me when I have to disburse even a small
sum without the chance of any possible return, and especially
when I have to do it to benefit some one who cannot make things
uncomfortable for me if I refuse. I have a sort of sentimental
feeling about you, because you are my sister, and to that extent
my refusal does give me a slight, though a passing sense of
irrision. But that will very soon disappear, and when I balance it
against the definite sacrifice of a sum of money, however small, I
do not hesitate for a moment. Please do not write to me again.

Your affectionate brother,
JOHN ROE.