carelessness, 'though I knew her long before you did.'

He paused, and a quick thought flashed through his mind that some
men are seen at their worst in adversity. He was ready enough to
find excuses for Horner, for men are strange in the gift of their
friendship, often bestowing it where they know it is but ill
deserved.

He rattled on with unbroken gaiety, unfolding plans which in their
perfection of detail suggested a previous experience in outrunning
the constable.

While they were still talking a mutual friend came in--a quick-
spoken man already beginning to be known as a journalist of ability.
They talked on indifferent topics for some time. Then the new-comer
said jerkily:

'Heard the news?'

'No,' answered Conyngham.

'Alfred Pleydell--young fellow who resisted the Chartist rioters at
Durham--died yesterday morning.' Frederick Conyngham had placed
himself in front of Horner, who was still seated in the low chair by
the fire. He found Horner's toe with his heel.

'Is that so?' he said gravely. 'Then I'm off.'

'What do you mean?' asked the journalist with a quick look--the man
had the manner of a ferret.