You wonder now,' he said, turning languidly to Mr Haredale, 'to see me here.
Now, I am sure you do.' Mr Haredale glanced at him--not fondly or admiringly--smiled, and held his peace.
'The mystery is solved in a moment,' said Mr Chester; 'in a moment.

Will you step aside with me one instant.

You remember our little compact in reference to Ned, and your dear niece, Haredale?
You remember the list of assistants in their innocent intrigue?
You remember these two people being among them?
My dear fellow, congratulate yourself, and me.

I have bought them off.' 'You have done what ?' said Mr Haredale.
'Bought them off,' returned his smiling friend.

'I have found it necessary to take some active steps towards setting this boy and girl attachment quite at rest, and have begun by removing these two agents.
You are surprised?
Who CAN withstand the influence of a little money! They wanted it, and have been bought off.