'That's an easy matter, compared with the partnership.'

'Now a man might think so, my baron,' said Jim, getting more
confidential. 'But the real truth is, 'tis the hardest part of all
for me.'

'Your suit prospers, I hope?'

'It don't,' said Jim. 'It don't at all just at present. In short, I
can't for the life o' me think what's come over the young woman
lately.' And he fell into deep reflection.

Though Jim did not observe it, the Baron's brow became shadowed with
self-reproach as he heard those simple words, and his eyes had a look
of pity. 'Indeed--since when?' he asked.

'Since yesterday, my noble lord.' Jim spoke meditatively. He was
resolving upon a bold stroke. Why not make a confidant of this kind
gentleman, instead of the parson, as he had intended? The thought
was no sooner conceived than acted on. 'My lord,' he resumed, 'I
have heard that you are a nobleman of great scope and talent, who has
seen more strange countries and characters than I have ever heard of,
and know the insides of men well. Therefore I would fain put a
question to your noble lordship, if I may so trouble you, and having
nobody else in the world who could inform me so trewly.'

'Any advice I can give is at your service, Hayward. What do you wish
to know?'

'It is this, my baron. What can I do to bring down a young woman's