rrupted Baltic, with a glance at
passers-by; 'it is as well to be discreet. One moment.' He led Gabriel
into a quiet alley, comparatively free from listeners. 'This is a rather
rough sort of neighbourhood, sir.'

'Rough certainly, but not dangerous,' replied Gabriel, puzzled by the
remark.

'Don't you carry a pistol, Mr Pendle?'

'No! Why should I?'

'Why indeed? If the Gospel is not a protection enough, no earthly arms
will prevail. Your name is Gabriel, I think, sir.'

'Yes! Gabriel Pendle; but I don't see--'

'I'm coming to an explanation, sir. G. P.' mused Baltic--'same initials
as those of your father and brother, eh, Mr Pendle?'

'Certainly. Both the bishop and my brother are named George.'

'G. P. all three,' said Baltic, with a nod, 'Do you travel abroad with a
Cook's ticket, sir?'

'Usually! Why do you--'

'A through ticket to--say Nauheim--is about three pounds, I believe?'

'I paid that for mine, Mr Baltic. May I ask why you question me in this
manner?' demanded Gabriel, irritably.

Baltic tapped Gabriel's chest three times with his forefinger. 'For your
own safety, Mr Pendle. Good-day, sir!'

CHAPTER XXXII

THE INITIALS

As has before been stated, Dr Graham had another conversation with his
persecuted friend, in which he advised him to tolerate the presence of
Cargrim until Baltic captured the actual criminal. It was also at this
second interview that the bishop asked Graham if he should tell George
the truth. This question the little doctor answered promptly in the
negative.

'For what is the use of telling him?' said he, argumentatively; 'doing
so will make you uncomfortable and George very unhappy.'

'But George must learn the truth sooner or later.'

'I don't see that it is necessary to inform him of it at all,' retorted
Graham, obstinately, 'and at all events you need not explain until
forced to do so. One thing at a time, bishop. At present your task is to
baffle Cargrim and kick the scoundrel out of the house when the murderer
is found. Then we can discuss the matter of the marriage with Mrs
Pendle.'

'Graham!'--the bishop's utterance of the name was like a cry of pain--'I
cannot--I dare not tell Amy!'

'You must, Pendle, since she is the principal person concerned in the
matter. You know how Gabriel learned the truth from her casual
description of her first husband. Well, when Mrs Pendle returns to
Beorminster, she may--I don't say that she will, mind you--but she m