The Columbian. [volume] (Bloomsburg, Pa.) 1866-1910, 1893-11-30

hlm AT CadmOre Manor within the
time. was at a loss TO know what to
make OF it. The only surmise that
seemed to offer a solution OF the con-
undrum was that Wade changed hs
mind even as he and talked; but
with secrecy natural in the circum.
stances. did not say as much. / could
not positively depose that he had taken
his place in the train.
However, as we appeared to be both
under one roof, as, indeed, l had been
brought here to see him, it was likely I
should soon have the truth.
II hate mysteries growlcd Gerald
Humbc and l will shrink from no
trou ble that will reveal the rogue who
has made way with 'Christie's ring
Wade gives me TO understand that he
has already promising clue"
IF Sylvester Wade cannot help you
l fear the chances of recovery are
small" answered.
II will tell him that you are here"
But when the master Of the house
rejoined Christie and me, together
with Mrs Hum Der and Miss Kesworth,
in the drawing room his face had ap-
precia5ly darkened There was al
most scowl as he glanced across at
Christie. 1t was easy TO see that he
blamed her. learned later what l
suspected then. that 1t was Christie
who had skilfully challenged his honor
on the point and had triumphed. But
noting the accord between us, and
perhaps certain gaiety returned after
absence to his daughters mood, he was
angry that he had yielded. The more
SO because of what he had now to state.
Wall the plan doesn't work, he
said Wade is touchy at the inter
ference. might have guessed that is
how it would ba He will not mix up
engagements"
But he has done So" l interjected.
The frown remained. but no atten
tion was paid to my remark.
He has insisted all along on cx-
IRENE caution and privacy regarding
the tject of his visit and he considers
that we are endangering every thing.
There is something in that OF course
the servants have no idea there is de-
.ectivc in the house. They do not know
the real name, Wade is passing as n
Mr. Gin blc."
started. queer "Reminiscences had
come to me- But moments thought
seemed to show that any theory
founded on this must be absurdly
ar-tetched, and l really did not en-
tertain the idea
But he has duty Mr.. Curtis" said
Christie, with brave front and kindl.
ing eyes
II must leave Wade TO fight his bat
ties when Mr.. Curtis takes him to task.
All that have to do under present
conditions is to report Wades view and
proposals. He will have nothing to say
to Mr.. Curtis here But il Mr.. Curtis
remains at the Red Lion till three to-
morrow afternoon. he will meet him
there"
My pride was in arms 1t was cava-
lier treatment marked, as l consid-
cred. by the coolest effrontery imagin-
able This was the worst of men who
knew that they had no real rivals in
their profession or calling. They could
be as high and mighty as princelings
But at least it agreed with the hy-
pothesis that Wade had tricked me on
the Willesden platform. The feeling
that he was in the wrong, and had
done mean thing and was trapped
would lead to aR openly insolent line
! OF action: There is defiance that
serves for defence. 1t went against
the grain to su bmit, but where was my
| choice
| please to inform Mr.. Wade that
will make it my business to keep that
appointment" said bitterly.
/ 1T is shame!" cried Christie
The clatter Of gong broke in oppor-
tunely on a strained situation.
You will dine with us, Mr.. Curtis?"
said Mrs. Humb Der. She was a kindly,
harmless woman. whom rumor said her
husband bullied.
hesitated. But Gerald Hum Der had
to tone down what was disa greea BILE to
his sense Of courtesy in the pre- eau tions
he had taken to ensure my leaving tho
Manor that night He would hear of no
refusal.
When we sat down missed the de-
tective, but as domestics were present,
nothing was said, II sat opposite Chris,
tie and by the side of Miss Kesworth }
To this newcomer in the Manor house.
hold had paid slight heed since the
introduction In the drawing room
she had the faculty of effacing herself