more sharpness than, in his early days, he would have thought quite
consistent with politeness.

"Perhaps," replied Skelton, for want of something better to say, and with
a callous sort of levity; "perhaps you hold the idea--some people
do--that murdered men can't rest in their graves until their murderers
have expiated their guilt?"

Marston made no reply, but shot two or three lurid glances from under his
brow at the speaker.

"Well, then, at all events," continued Skelton, indolently resuming his
theme, "if you decline your assistance, may I, at least, hope for your
advice? Knowing nothing of this country, I would ask you whither you
would recommend me to have the body conveyed?"

"I don't care to advise in the matter," said Marston; "but if I were
directing, I should have the remains buried in Chester. It is not more
than twenty miles from this; and if, at any future time, his family
should desire to remove the body, it could be effected more easily from
thence. But you can decide."

"Egad! I believe you are right," said Skelton, glad to be relieved of the
trouble of thinking about the matter; "and I shall take your advice."

In accordance with this declaration the body was, within four-and-twenty
hours, removed to Chester, and buried there, Mr. Skelton attending on
behalf of Sir Wynston's numerous and afflicted friends and relatives.

There are certain heartaches for which time brings no healing; nay,