"Dr. Kemp left this for you this morning," said he, holding out a small
envelope. A flush rose to the old gentleman's sallow cheek as he took it.

"Thank you," he said; "I believe I shall come in here for a few minutes."

He passed by the clerk and seated himself in a deep, cane-bottomed chair
near the window. He fumbled for the cord of his glasses in a slightly
nervous manner, and adjusted them hastily. The missive was addressed to
him, certainly; and with no little wonder he tore it open and read:--

BEACHAM'S Friday morning.

MR. LEVICE:

MY DEAR SIR,--Pardon the hurried nature of this communication, but I must
leave shortly on the in-coming train, having an important operation to
undertake this morning; otherwise I should have liked to prepare you more
fully, but time presses. Simply, then, I love your daughter. I told her
so last night upon the river, and she has made me the proudest and happiest
of men by returning my love. I am well aware what I am asking of you when
I ask her of you to be my wife. You know me personally; you know my
financial standing; I trust to you to remember my failings with mercy in
the knowledge of our great love. Till Monday night, then, I leave her and
my happiness to your consideration and love.

With the greatest respect,
Yours Sincerely,
HERBERT KEMP.

"My God!"