Older than you by some years, and looking older than he really is." "Thanks; but there is not one precise statement in your description.

Is the man dark or fair--short or tall ?" "Rather dark than fair; rather tall than short." "That will do, Sir David," Gilbert said, starting suddenly to his feet, and looking the Baronet in the face intently.

"The man who robbed me of my promised wife is the man whom I introduced to her; the man who has come between me and all my hopes, who hides himself from my just anger, and skulks in the background under a feigned name, is the one friend whom I have loved above all other men--John Saltram!" Sir David faced him without flinching.

If it was acted surprise which appeared upon his countenance at the sound of John Saltram's name, the acting was perfect.

Gilbert could discover nothing from that broad stare of blank amazement.
"In heaven's name, what can have put such a preposterous notion into your head ?" Sir David asked coolly.
"I cannot tell you.