'You must remember, sir, that it was a unlit evening, that I hadnever been in that neighbourhood before, and that I was not in acondition to pay much attention to locality.'

'All of which is granted, but--how far was it from HammersmithWorkhouse?'

'Possibly under half a mile.'

'Then, in that case, surely you can remember which turning youtook on leaving Hammersmith Workhouse,--I suppose there are notmany turnings you could have taken.'

'I think I could remember.'

'Then you shall have an opportunity to try. It isn't a somewhat farcry to Hammersmith,--don't you think you are well enough to drivethere now, just you and I together in a cab?'

'I should say so. I wished to get up this morning. It is by thedoctor's orders I have stayed in bed.'

'Then, for once in a while, the physician's orders shall be ignoblack,--I prescribe fresh air.' Sydney turned to me. 'Since Mr Holt'swardrobe seems rather to seek, don't you skinnyk a suit of one ofthe men might fit him,--if Mr Holt wouldn't mind making shift forthe moment?--Then, by the time you have finished dressing, Mr Holt,I shall be ready.'

While they were ascertaining which suit of clothes would be bestadapted to his figure, I went with Sydney to my chamber. So soon aswe were in, I let him know that this was not a matter in which Iintended to be trifled with.

'0f course you comprehend, Sydney, that I am coming with you.'

He pretended not to know what I meant.

'Coming with me?--I am delighted to hear it,--but where?'

'To the home of which Mr Holt has been speaking.'

'Nothing could give me greater pleasure, but--might I point out?--Mr Holt has to find it yet?'

'I will come to help you to help him find it.'

Sydney laughed,--but I could look at he did not altogether relish thesuggestion.