Come with me and examine the house for yourself." "Pardon me," said Denzil, drawing back, "it is none of my business.

But I warn you, Mr.Berwin, that others are more curious than I am.

Several times people have been known to be in your house while you were absent, and your mode of life, secretive and strange, does not commend itself to the householders in this neighbourhood.

If you persist in giving rise to gossip and scandal, some busybody may bring the police on the scene." "The police!" echoed the old man, now greatly alarmed, as would appear from his shaking voice.

"No! no! That will never do! My house is my castle! The police dare not break into it! I am a peaceful and very unfortunate gentleman, who wishes to live quietly.