"What do you wish to talk about?" said Wilkinson, ceasing his effort
to release himself from the firm grip of his friend.

"About Cara," was answered.

"Go home and make it up with her; that's the best way. She loves
you, and you love her; and your love will settle all differences.
And besides, Harry, you shouldn't talk about these things to other
people. The relation between man and wife is too sacred for this."

"Do you think I talk in this way to everybody? No, indeed!"
responded Ellis, in a half-offended tone of voice. "But you're a
particular friend. You know Cara's peculiar temper, and can advise
with me as a friend. So come along, I want to have a talk with you."

"Come where?"

Ellis turned and pointed to a brilliant gas lamp in the next square,
that stood in front of a much frequented tavern.

"No, no; I must go home." And Wilkinson tried to extricate himself
from the firm grasp of his friend. But the latter tightened his
hold, as he said--

"It's of no use. I shall not let you go. So come along with me to
Parker's. Over a couple of brandy toddies we will discuss this
matter of Cara's."

A vigorous jerk from the hand of Ellis gave the body of Wilkinson a
motion in the direction of the tavern. Had his mind been perfectly