Those were the orders." "Orders to be disobeyed, I fear, Wade," said Braden darkly.

"I am not going to Mr.Thorpe's house." "I understand, sir," said Wade patiently.

"I quite understand.

Still it is my duty to report to you that Mr.Thorpe is expecting you." "Nevertheless, I shall not--" "Perhaps I should inform you that your grandfather is--er--confined to his bed.

As a matter of fact, Mr.Braden, he is confined to his death-bed." Braden was shocked.