and hide her, you were the first one to tell anybody her history, just
because you thought it was to the glory of God generally, and of Joshua
Rylands in particular."

"A man's motives are his own," stammered Rylands.

"Sorry you didn't see it when you questioned mine just now," said Jack
coolly.

"Then she complained to you?" said Rylands hesitatingly.

"I didn't say that," said Jack shortly.

"But you found her unhappy?"

"Damnably."

"And you advised her"--said Rylands tentatively.

"I advised her to chuck you and try to get a better husband." He paused,
and then added, with a disgusted laugh, "but she didn't tumble to it,
for a d----d silly reason."

"What reason?" said Rylands hurriedly.

"Said she LOVED you," returned Jack, kicking a brand back into the fire.
Mr. Rylands's white cheeks flamed out suddenly like the brand. Seeing
which, Jack turned upon him deliberately.

"Mr. Joshua Rylands, I've seen many fools in my time. I've seen men