There is some mistake ?" "There is a mistake," was the slow reply.

"I did not give my name as Sir Gaston Belward.

That was Falby's conclusion, sir.

But I am Gaston Robert Belward, just the same." Sir William was dazed, puzzled.

He presently made a quick gesture, as if driving away some foolish thought, and, motioning to a chair, said: "Will you be seated ?" They both sat, Sir William by his writing-table.