As I stood now, however, in the charming place, among the rows of neatly-arranged pots, I experienced a sort of waking dream.

I seemed to see myself standing in this very conservatory, hard at work upon my flowers, a pipe in my mouth and my favourite old felt hat upon my head.

Crime and criminals were alike forgotten; I no longer lived in a dingy part of the Town, and what was better than all I had---- "Do you know I feel almost inclined to offer you the proverbial penny," said Miss Kitwater's voice behind me, at the drawing-room door.

"Is it permissible to ask what you were thinking about ?" I am not of course prepared to swear it, but I honestly believe for the first time for many years, I blushed.
"I was thinking how very pleasant a country life must be," I said, making the first excuse that came to me.

"I almost wish that I could lead one." "Then why don't you?
Surely it would not be so very difficult ?" "I am rather afraid it would," I answered.