"I don't know which to admire most, your logic or your
benevolence."

My friend coloured at this, but he didn't change the subject.
"Where did they pick him up?"

"I think they were struck with something he had published."

"I can fancy the dreary thing!"

"I believe they found out he had all sorts of worries and
difficulties."

"That of course wasn't to be endured, so they jumped at the
privilege of paying his debts!" I professed that I knew nothing
about his debts, and I reminded my visitor that though the dear
Mulvilles were angels they were neither idiots nor millionaires.
What they mainly aimed at was reuniting Mr. Saltram to his wife.
"I was expecting to hear he has basely abandoned her," Gravener
went on, at this, "and I'm too glad you don't disappoint me."

I tried to recall exactly what Mrs. Mulville had told me. "He
didn't leave her--no. It's she who has left him."

"Left him to US?" Gravener asked. "The monster--many thanks! I
decline to take him."

"You'll hear more about him in spite of yourself. I can't, no, I
really can't resist the impression that he's a big man." I was
already mastering--to my shame perhaps be it said--just the tone my