CHAPTER L.
WINE AND TRUTH.
The conversation takes a fresh turn.

Corlaer Van Boozenberg is talking of the great heiress, Miss Wayne.

He has drunk wine enough to be bold, and calls out aloud from his end of the table, "Mr.Abel Newt!" That gentleman turns his head toward his guest.
"We are wondering down here how it is that Miss Wayne went away from New York unengaged." "I am not her confidant," Abel answers; and gallantly adds, "I am sure, like every other man, I should be glad to be so." "But you had the advantage of every body else." "How so ?" asks Abel, conscious that Grace Plumer is watching him closely.
"Why, you were at school in Delafield until you were no chicken." Abel bows smilingly.
"You must have known her." "Yes, a little." "Well, didn't you know what a stunning heiress she was, and so handsome! How'd you, of all men in the world, let her slip through your fingers ?" A curious silence follows this effusion.

Corlaer Van Boozenberg is slightly flown with wine.

Hal Battlebury, who sits near him, looks troubled.