Could you find out to-day by telegram ?" "I'll try." Presently he added, "I could never make out why you stuck to the fellow as you did, old man, especially when he turned against you.

You're a better man than ever I shall be." "Nonsense! I promised once to be his friend, that's all.

Do send the telegram soon.

And now tell me who's the pale man talking to Clarke ?" "A fellow called Reader--one of the cleverest men we've got." "He looks half-starved!" "Yes; I'm afraid he's--I mean, I don't think he takes proper care of himself." "Pity," said Charlie.

"I say, old man, this is rare steak! Give us a bit more.