"Good heavens!" exclaimed the timid Harold Perkins--"don't say S0. Mydear Mr. Scully, I'm not the dishonest character you suppose me tobe--I never looked at the matter in this light. I'll--I'll considerof it. I'll tell Crampton that I will give up the place; but forHeaven's sake, don't let me forfeit Y0UR friendship, which is dearerto me than any place in the world."

Mr. Scully pressed his hand, and said nothing; and though theirinterview lasted a full half-hour longer, during which they paced upand down the gravel walk, we shall not breathe a single syllable oftheir conversation, as it has nothing to do with our tale.