said; and would fain have talked longer of this subject, but Gilbert
concluded his visit at this juncture, not caring to discuss his troubles
with the sympathetic widow.

He left the great gloomy gorgeous house in Cavendish square more than
ever convinced of Adela Branston's affection for his friend, more than
ever puzzled by John Saltram's indifference to so advantageous an
alliance.

Within a few days of this visit Gilbert Fenton left London. He had
devoted himself unflinchingly to his business since his return to
England, and had so planned and organized his affairs as to be able now
to absent himself for some little time from the City. He was going upon
what most men would have called a fool's errand--his quest of Marian's
husband; but he was going with a steady purpose in his breast--a
determination never to abandon the search till it should result in
success. He might have to suspend it from time to time, should he
determine to continue his commercial career; but the purpose would be
nevertheless the ruling influence of his life.

He had but one clue for his guidance in setting out upon this voyage of
discovery. Miss Long had told him that the newly-married couple were to
go to some farm-house in Hampshire which had been lent to Mr. Holbrook by
a friend. It was in Hampshire, therefore, that Gilbert resolved to make
his first inquiries. He told himself that success was merely a question
of time and patience. The business of tracing these people, who were not
to be found by any public inquiry, would be slow and wearisome no doubt.
He was prepared for that. He was prepared for a thousand failures and
disappointments before he alighted on the one place in which Mr.
Holbrook's name must needs be known, the town or village nearest to the