But he was simply astounded when his nabob relative quietly said: "I have obtained a six months' leave of absence for you! Let no one know of your movements.

Leave your rooms and baggage just as they are.

I will now move in there, and put one of my servants in charge while you are gone.

I have made my will and named your father as my executor and the guardian of my daughter, and you are to succeed, in case of his death! There will be a small fortune for you both in the fees, and neither of you are forgotten in the will! I have drawn two thousand pounds in notes for you, and here is a bank draft on London for three thousand more!" The young man was sitting in open-mouthed wonder, when the nabob sharply said: "Now! Have your wits about you! I bear all the expenses here, and your office pay goes on.

You will be promoted on your return.