"I did, for half an hour. I felt that it was my duty, though the
interview was hard on us both. He was fair, as he always was, and
tried to hide his feelings. I couldn't blame him because he failed."

Bertram looked away, and Blake's face was troubled. There was a hint
of emotion in his voice as he went on, turning to Blanche:

"Whatever he may think of me, I have a sincere respect for Colonel
Challoner; and I owe him more than I can ever repay. He brought me up
after my father's death and started me, like a son, in an honorable
career." His tone grew lighter. "It's one of my few virtues that I
don't forget my debts. But I've kept you some time. My American
friend hasn't turned up yet and I may be here a few days. Where are
you staying? I'll look you up before I leave."

"We go West to-morrow morning. Come down and have dinner with us at
the Windsor," Bertram said; and when Mrs. Challoner seconded the
request, they went up the steps to the platform from which the cable
train started.




CHAPTER IV

THE MAN FROM CONNECTICUT

After an excellent dinner, Mrs. Keith took Blanche away, and the men
found a quiet corner in the rotunda, where they sat talking for a while.