quadrangle, in which a number of persons were taking coffee at small
tables set here and there under oleander-trees in green-painted tubs.
The smoking-room was unoccupied. Lynde stood a moment undetermined in
the centre of the apartment, and then he laid his hand on the doctor's
shoulder.

"You don't remember me?"

"Ah, then I HAVE seen you before!" exclaimed Dr. Pendegrast, transfixed
in the act of drawing a cigar from his case. "Your name and your face
puzzled me, but I could not place you, so I didn't mention it. You must
pardon an old man's bad memory. I am confused. When and where have I had
the pleasure of seeing you?"

"It was scarcely a pleasure," said Lynde, with bitterness.

"Indeed! I cannot imagine that; it is a pleasure now," returned the
doctor courteously. "It was three years ago, at your asylum. As you will
recollect, I was brought there by mistake the day the patients"--

"Bless me!" exclaimed the doctor, dropping the ignited match. "How could
I forget you! I took such a great liking to you, too. I have thought of
that awkward affair a thousand times. But, really, coming across you in
this unexpected manner"--

"I suppose I have changed somewhat," Lynde broke in. "Dr. Pendegrast, I
am in a very strange position here. It is imperative you should be
perfectly frank with me. You will have to overlook my abruptness. Mr.
Denham may return any instant, and what I have to say cannot be said in
his presence. I know that Miss Denham has been under your charge as a