I shall not be going away for six months or so." Captain Oliphant came to the conclusion he had better finish the letter with the blot than attempt a new one.

Having done so, he put it in his pocket, and turned with a good show of coolness to his guest.
"When do we run down to Maxfield ?" inquired the latter.
"Not for some time.

There is illness in the house.

You must wait." "Oh, I don't mind if you don't.

Who is the invalid?
Young Croesus ?" "Yes--dangerously ill.