rstand how
anxious her parents are for the consummation of the marriage."

"Certainly, certainly; it is only natural. I suppose you have
explained to them your prospects?"

"Yes, I have often talked the matter over with them and they are
perfectly satisfied. The title and the social position appeal to them
very strongly."

"And in return?" There was a peculiar expression in Grimsby's eyes as
he asked the question, which Donaster failed to notice.

"Oh, they have agreed to settle a dowry upon their daughter in
consideration of the favours she will receive."

"A large sum, I suppose."

"Yes, quite satisfactory to me. But what has this to do with your
visit? There is no reason why I should tell you all this, and I cannot
understand myself for doing so. Anyway, it relieves my mind to talk it
over with someone."

Grimsby did not at once reply. He helped himself to another cigarette,
lighted it and smoked for a few minutes in silence. Donaster was
becoming impatient. He was tired after his experience on the river the
night before, and he wished to be rid of his visitor. But he was
anxious to know what he wanted. He felt that this man knew where Miss
Randall was, and he must find out before he left.

"And so you hope to make Miss Randall Lady Donaster?" Grimsby at length
questioned.

"That is my intention. Why do you ask?"

"But what if you never will be Lord Donaster? What then?"

"Why, what do you mean? I shall inherit the title as soon as my father
dies."

"But suppose you have no right to the title?"

Donaster gave a distinct start. Then he laughed.

"H'm, you needn't worry about that. Just you wait."

"But suppose you are not Lord Donaster's son?" Grimsby's question was
very deliberate, but it had an immediate effect.

"Not his son! What are you driving at, anyway? Stop your nonsense.
If I am not Lord Donaster's son, who am I, then?"

"You are an impostor, that's what you are. There is no Lord Donaster.
Your father is a shoemaker in the State of New Jersey. I have proof,
so you needn't try to deny it."

Donaster had now risen to his feet. He was trembling violently, and
his face was as white as death.

"For God's sake!" he gasped, "how did you learn all this? Who are you,
anyway?"

"Never mind who I am," and Grimsby smiled with satisfaction. He was
succeeding better than he had expected. "You know what I say is true."

"Does anybody else know this?" Donaster asked. "Ha