had cut when Neeld came first to
Fairholme; it was stranger still in view of what must soon be. The
announcement of the engagement seemed to assume to write _Finis_ to
Harry as a factor in Blentmouth society. In that point of view the
moment chosen for it was full of an unconscious irony. Janie would not
have gone back to him now, and Neeld did not suspect her of any feeling
which could have made that possible. It was merely odd that she should
be putting an appropriate finish to a thing which in the meantime had
been suddenly, absolutely, and radically undone. Neeld was loyal to his
word; but none may know the terrible temptation he suffered; a nod, a
wink, a hint, an ambiguity--anything would have given him some relief.

Harry was mentioned only once--in connection with his letter to Iver
about the Arbitration. Iver was not inclined to let him go.

"He has great business ability. It's a pity to waste his time. He can
make money, Neeld."

"Disney's a good friend to have," Neeld suggested.

"If he stays in, yes. But this thing won't be popular."

Neeld could maintain no interest in the conversation. It had to proceed
all along on a baseless presumption, to deal with a state of things
which did not exist. What might be wise for Harry--Harry
Nothing-at-all--might be unwise for Tristram of Blent, and conversely.

"I must leave it to him," Iver concluded. "But I shall tell him that I
hope he won't go. He's got his way in the world to make first. He can
try politics later on, if he likes."

"No doubt you're right," murmured old Neeld, both uneasy and
uninterested. He was feeling something of what he had experienced once
before; he knew the truth and he had to keep his friend in the dark. In
those earlier days he had one confidant, one accomplice, in Mina
Zabriska. The heavy secret was all his own to carry now.

As a consequence of his preoccupation Janie Iver found him rather
unsympathetic, and with her usual candor she told him so.

"You don't really appreciate Bob," said she. "Nobody quite knows him
except me. I didn't use to, but now I know what a strong character he
has."

Unwontedly cynical thoughts rose in old Mr Neeld. Had he come down to
Fairholme to listen to the platitudes of virtuous love? Indeed he had
come for no such thing. All young men have strong characters while they
are engaged.

"And it's such a comfort to have a man one can lean upon," Janie
pursued, looking, however, admirably capable of st