other hand, Cuthbert could not help feeling uneasy, lest Mrs.
Octagon had some secret connected with the death which made
her refuse her consent to the match, and which, if he
explained to Jennings what he knew, might become known in a
quarter which she might not approve of. However, Mallow was
certain that, in spite of Mrs. Octagon's hint, his uncle had
nothing to do with the matter, and he had already warned her--
although she refused to listen--that he intended to trace
the assassin. Under these circumstances, and also because
Jennings was his friend and more likely to aid him, than get
anyone he knew and respected into trouble, the young man made
up his mind to tell everything.

"The fact is, I am engaged to Juliet Saxon," he began,
hesitatingly.

"I know that. She is the daughter of that absurd Mrs.
Octagon, with the meek husband and the fine opinion of
herself."

"Yes. But Juliet is the niece of Miss Loach."

"What!" Jennings sprang from his chair with a look of
surprise; "do you mean to tell me that Mrs. Octagon is Miss
Loach's sister."

"I do. They quarrelled many years ago, and have not been
friendly for years. Mrs. Octagon would never go and see her
sister, but she did not forbid her children being friendly.
As you may guess, Mrs. Octagon is much distressed about the