"One of them was--the Red Rapparee himself."

"Do not be deceived, Mr. Folliard; did you yourself, or any of your
family or household, see him?"

"Why, no, certainly, we did not; I admit that."

"Yes, and you will admit more soon. I shall prove the whole conspiracy."

"Well, why don't you then?"

"Simply because the matter must be brought about with great caution.
You--must allow me a few days, say three or four, and the proofs shall
be given."

"Very well, Sir Robert, but in the meantime I shall not throw Reilly
overboard."

"Could I not be permitted to pay my respects to Miss Folliard before I
go, sir?" asked Sir Robert.

"Don't insist upon it," replied her father; "you know perfectly well
that she--that you are no favorite with her."

"Nothing on earth, sir, grieves me so much," said the baronet, affecting
a melancholy expression of countenance, which was ludicrous to look at.

"Well, well," said the old man, "as you can't see her now, come and meet
Reilly here at dinner the day after to-morrow, and you shall have that