But from what you tell me, Mr.
Striker may now go hang himself.....

There is one thing, however, to say as a friend, in the way of warning.

That candid soul can keep a secret, and he may have private designs on your equanimity which you don't begin to suspect.

What do you think of his being engaged to Miss Garland?
The two ladies had given no hint of it all winter, but a fortnight ago, when those big photographs of his statues arrived, they first pinned them up on the wall, and then trotted out into the town, made a dozen calls, and announced the news.

Mrs.Hudson did, at least; Miss Garland, I suppose, sat at home writing letters.