I rather resented the practice of fathering all flatness on my late protector, who was in his unhonoured grave; but as I had my way to make I found matter enough for complacency in being on a "staff." At the same time I was aware of my exposure to suspicion as a product of the old lowering system.

This made me feel I was doubly bound to have ideas, and had doubtless been at the bottom of my proposing to Mr.Pinhorn that I should lay my lean hands on Neil Paraday.

I remember how he looked at me--quite, to begin with, as if he had never heard of this celebrity, who indeed at that moment was by no means in the centre of the heavens; and even when I had knowingly explained he expressed but little confidence in the demand for any such stuff.

When I had reminded him that the great principle on which we were supposed to work was just to create the demand we required, he considered a moment and then returned: "I see--you want to write him up." "Call it that if you like." "And what's your inducement ?" "Bless my soul--my admiration!" Mr.Pinhorn pursed up his mouth.

"Is there much to be done with him ?" "Whatever there is we should have it all to ourselves, for he hasn't been touched." This argument was effective and Mr.Pinhorn responded.