Pardon that I make the suggestion . '' `` No , Hoffman , I do n't like the air of this place , and intend to leave as soon as possible . '' And Helen knit her delicate dark brows with an expression of great determination . `` Switzerland is the refuge of political exiles , and I hate plots and disguises ; I feel oppressed by some mystery , and mean to solve or break away from it at once . '' She stopped abruptly , longing to ask his help , yet withheld by a sudden sense of shyness in approaching the subject , though she had decided to speak to Karl of the Pole . `` Can I serve you , mademoiselle ? If so , pray command me , '' he said , eagerly , coming a step nearer . `` You can , and I intend to ask your advice , for there can be nothing amiss in doing so , since you are a friend of Casimer 's . '' `` I am both friend and confidant , mademoiselle , '' he answered , as if anxious to let her understand that he knew all , without the embarrassment of words . She looked up quickly , relieved , yet troubled . `` He has told you , then ? '' `` Everything , mademoiselle . Pardon me if this afflicts you ; I am his only friend here , and the poor lad sorely needed comfort . '' `` He did . I am not annoyed ; I am glad , for I know you will sustain him . Now I may speak freely , and be equally frank . Please tell me if he is indeed fatally ill ? '' `` It was thought so some months ago ; now I hope . Happiness cures many ills , and since he has loved , he has improved . I always thought care would save him ; he is worth it . ''
Hoffman paused , as if fearful of venturing too far ; but XXXXX seemed to confide freely in him , and said , softly , -- `` Ah , if it were only wise to let him be happy .
Casimer Everything Helen Hoffman Karl Pole Switzerland friend shyness subject