WILKINSON was nearly in front of his own door, when he was thus
familiarly accosted by a man named Ellis, who came leisurely walking
along with a lighted cigar in his mouth.

"Hallo! is this you, Wilkinson? What in the name of wonder are you
doing out at such an hour?"

"And suppose I were to ask you the same question?" inquired
Wilkinson, as he took the hand of the other, who was an old
acquaintance.

"It would be easily answered," was the unhesitating reply of Ellis,
who had been drinking rather freely.

"Well, suppose I have the benefit of your answer."

"You're quite welcome. I keep no secrets from an old friend, you
see. Can't you guess?"

"I'm not good at guessing."

"Had a little tiff with Cara," said Ellis in a half whisper, as he
bent to the ear of his companion.

"Oh, no!" returned Wilkinson.

"Fact. Cara's a dear, good soul, as you know; but she's a