other."

"By the great Egyptian library and the soul of Diodorus! I wish you
could hear my father upon that point. Come," added I, with sublime
compassion, "come, it is not too late, do let me introduce you to my
father. I will consent to read French novels all my life if a single
chat with Austin Caxton does not send you home with a happier face and
lighter heart. Come, let me take you back to dine with us to-day."

"I cannot," said Vivian, with some confusion; "I cannot, for this day I
leave London. Some other time perhaps,--for," he added, but not
heartily, "we may meet again."

"I hope so," said I, wringing his hand, "and that is likely, since, in
spite of yourself, I have guessed your secret,--your birth and
parentage."

"How!" cried Vivian, turning pale and gnawing his lip. "What do you
mean? Speak."

"Well, then, are you not the lost, runaway son of Colonel Vivian? Come,
say the truth; let us be confidants."

Vivian threw off a succession of his abrupt sighs; and, then, seating
himself, leaned his face on the table, confused, no doubt, to find
himself discovered.

"You are near the mark," said he, at last, "but do not ask me further
yet. Some day," he cried impetuously, and springing suddenly to his
feet, "some day you shall know all,--yes, some day, if I live, when that