You are at liberty ?" "Go on." "She is a friend of mine.

No, I mean what I say; there is absolutely nothing else between us, and never has been.

I should like to know whether you are satisfied to believe that; much depends on it." "Age and appearance ?" "About twenty--not quite so much--and strikingly handsome." "H'm.

Position in life ?" "A year ago was on the streets, to put it plainly; since then has been getting her living at laundry-work." "H'm.

Name ?" "Ida Starr." Mr.Woodstock had been gazing at the toes of his boots, still the same smile on his face.