Mrs.Bunker was startled to recognize in him one of the two gentlemen who had taken Mr.Marion off in the boat, but as he did not appear to recognize her even after an awkward introduction by her husband, she would have recovered her equanimity but for a singular incident.

As her husband turned momentarily away, the Secretary, with a significant gesture, slipped a letter into her hand.

She felt the blood rush to her face as, with a smile, he moved away to follow her husband.
She came down to the little cabin and impatiently tore open the envelope, which bore no address.

A small folded note contained the following lines:-- "I never intended to burden you with my confidence, but the discretion, tact, and courage you displayed on our first meeting, and what I know of your loyalty since, have prompted me to trust myself again to your kindness, even though you are now aware whom you have helped, and the risks you ran.

My friends wish to communicate with me and to forward to me, from time to time, certain papers of importance, which, owing to the tyrannical espionage of the Government, would be discovered and stopped in passing through the express or post-office.