had better drop any further discussion of this subject and direct the
precis-writer to expunge the report of such part of our proceedings as
relate to it from our minutes."

To Sir Matthew's surprise no dissentient voice was raised. The resolution
was agreed to unanimously, and once more he congratulated himself on the
skill with which he had disposed of an awkward dilemma.

"And now, gentlemen, we will call the next witness. Mr. Tarleton, will
you kindly--"

"One moment please, Sir Matthew."

The interruption was made in a very soft voice which almost lisped the
words. They came from the immediate right of the chairman, who turned
with surprise toward the speaker, Lord Milford, who until this moment had
never opened his mouth.

"I have to propose," continued the gentle voice, "that we call before us,
without delay, Mr. Maurice Blum, of the firm of Blum & Co., Threadneedle
Street."

Sir Matthew gasped and turned deadly pale. For an instant he felt as
though he would collapse, then, summoning all his will, he fought back
the emotion which was almost choking him. By a supreme effort he
partially regained his self-possession and managed to assume an ordinary
expression. With one rapid and comprehensive glance he took in the faces
of Lord Milford and the committee, and with an immense relief told
himself that they were one and all ignorant of what the proposal
signified to him.