and I have done with it--that is all. You think some game is being played
on you--both you and Mr. Wentworth think that--and yet you haven't the
"cuteness," as they call it here, or sharpness, to find it out. Now, a
man who has suspicions he cannot prove to be well founded should keep
those suspicions to himself until he can prove them. That is my advice
to you. I wish you a good-day.'

John Kenyon walked back to his hotel with more misgivings than ever. He
wrote a letter to Wentworth detailing the conversation, telling him
Melville had sailed for home, and advising him to see that gentleman when
he arrived. He stayed in New York that night, and took the morning train
to Montreal. In due time he arrived at Ottawa, and called on Von Brent.
He found that gentleman in his chambers, looking as if he had never left
the room since the option was signed. Von Brent at first did not
recognise his visitor, but after gazing a moment at him he sprang from
his chair and held out his hand.

'I really did not know you,' he said; 'you have changed a great deal
since I saw you last. You look haggard, and not at all well. What is the
matter with you?'

'I do not think anything is the matter. I am in very good health, thank
you; I have had a few business worries, that is all.'

'Ah, yes,' said Von Brent; 'I am very sorry indeed you failed to form
your company.'

'Failed!' echoed Kenyon.

'Yes; you haven't succeeded, have you?'