promised Dr. Ashton. We must get him a snug berth; one that even the
doctor won't object to, and set him straight in other matters. If he has
mortgaged his patrimony, it shall be redeemed. And, Anne, I think--I do
think--he may be trusted to keep straight for the future."

Her soft sweet eyes sparkled with pleasure, and her lips parted with a
sunny smile. Lord Hartledon took her hand within his own as it lay on his
arm, and the furious old dowager saw it all from the distance.

"Don't say as much as this to him, Anne: I only tell you. Val is so
sanguine, that it may be better not to tell him all beforehand. And I
want, of course, first of all, to get a true list of--that is, a true
statement of facts," he broke off, not caring to speak the word "debts"
to that delicate girl before him. "He is my only brother; my father left
him to me, for he knew what Val was; and I'll do my best for him. I'd do
it for Val's own sake, apart from the charge. And, Anne, once Val is on
his legs with an income, snug and comfortable, I shall recommend him to
marry without delay; for, after all, you will be his greatest safeguard."

A blush suffused her face, and Lord Hartledon smiled.

Down came the countess-dowager.

"Here's that old dowager calling to me. She never lets me alone. Val sent
me into a fit of laughter yesterday, saying she had designs on me for
Maude. Poor deluded woman! Yes, ma'am, I hear. What is it?"

Mr. Elster went strolling along on the banks of the river, towards Calne;
not with any particular purpose, but in his restless uneasiness. He had a
tender conscience, and his past follies were pressing on it heavily. Of