be exempt from brands of felony."

"When one is beaten with many stripes, a blow more or less matters
little; is not computed. They kindly tell me that illness and the
doctor's commands cost me the loss of my hair; and after all, why
should I object to the convict coiffure? Nothing matters any more."

"Why not admit at once that, Bernice-like, you freely offered up your
beautiful hair as love's sacrifice?"

He spoke hotly, and an ungovernable rage possessed him as he realized
that though so near, and apparently so helpless, she was yet so
immeasurably removed, so utterly inaccessible. Her drooping white lids
lifted; she looked steadily up at him, and the mournful eyes held no
hint of denial. He stretched his hand across the table, and all the
gnawing hunger at his heart leaped into his voice, that trembled with
entreaty.

"For God's sake give me your hand just once, as proof that you forgive
my share in this cruel, dastardly outrage."

"Do not touch me. When we shake hands it must be as seal upon a very
sacred compact, which you are not yet ready to make."

She straightened herself, and her hands were removed from the table;
fell to stroking the cat lying on her knee.

"What conditions would you impose upon me?"

"Sit down, Mr. Dunbar, and let us transact the necessary business which
alone made this interview possible."

With an imperious gesture, befitting some sovereign who reluctantly
accords audience, she motioned him to the chair, and as he seated
himself his eyes gleamed ominously.

"It pleases you to ignore our past relations?"

"Even so. To-day we meet merely as attorney and client to arrange the
final QUID PRO QUO. You have brought the paper?"

"I inferred from your message that you desired as exact a copy as
memory permitted. Here it is."

He took from his pocket a long legal envelope.

"I believe you stated that your father originally drew up this paper,
and that recently you altered and re-wrote it?"

"Those are the facts relative to it."

"Can you recall the date of the revision?"

"Nearly a year ago. Last May it was signed in the presence of Doctor
Ledyard and Colonel Powell, who also signed as witnesses, though
ignorant of its contents."

"You offer me this as a correct expression of Gen'l Darrington's wishes
regarding the distribution of his estate, real and personal?"

"At your request I furnish from memory a copy of Gen'l Darrington's
will, which I have faithfully endeavored to