"I don't quite understand." The young man related how Mrs.Octagon had inquired if the Earl was back from the Continent, and her subsequent remark.

"Of course I may be unduly suspicious," said he.

"But it suggested--" "Quite so," interrupted the old gentleman gravely.

"You are quick at putting two and two together.

Isabella Octagon hates me so much that she would gladly see me on the scaffold.