doubt of his dullness. What if he should come philandering after
Dorothy? Mrs. Hanway-Harley's feathers began to rise. No beggar fed by
charity need hope for her daughter's hand; she was firm-set as to that.
Perhaps Mr. Gwynn intended to make him rich by his will. At this Mrs.
Hanway-Harley's feathers showed less excitement. Mr. Gwynn should be
sounded on the subject of bequests. Why not put the question to Mr.
Storms? It would at least lead to the development of that equivocal
gentleman's expectations.

"Has Mr. Gwynn any family in England?" asked Mrs. Hanway-Harley.

"A nephew or two, I believe; possibly a brother."

"But he will make you his heir."

"Me?" Richard gave a negative shake of the head. "The old fellow
wouldn't leave me a shilling. Why should he? Nor would I accept it if he
did." Richard's sidelong look at Mrs. Hanway-Harley was full of
amusement. "No, the old rogue hates me, if he would but tell the
truth--which he won't--and if it were worth my while and compatible with
my self-respect, I've no doubt I'd hate him."

This sentiment was delivered with the blasé air of weariness worn out,
that should belong with him who has seen and heard and known a world's
multitude; which manner is everywhere recognized as the very flower of
good breeding.

Mrs. Hanway-Harley sat tongue-tied with astonishment. In the end she
recalled herself. Mrs. Hanway-Harley scented nothing perilous in the
situation. In any event, Dorothy would wed whomsoever she decreed; Mrs.