and despair. But the
"renewing" might come even yet, however much he scorned the thought;
for forty-two is at the prime of years, and Life has a tender way of
her own of healing when she will.

But to-night the memories are bitter, and the reopened wound throbs
and burns. Carew strode up to his hut, with only a curt good night to
the trooper, and when Stanley arrived back there was no light burning,
only darkness and silence.

X

A MINING CAMP

The following day Carew avoided the camp, after telling Stanley he
might devote his time to the ladies if he wished. In the afternoon,
however, he saw Mr. Pym and his engineer arrive, and then, presently,
the party all went down to the ruins together. About an hour later
they re-emerged, and while the two girls went back to the tents, the
millionaire strolled towards the police camp. Carew, seizing his
opportunity, came out, and went to meet him. He considered himself
fortunate in being able to offer the necessary courtesies when the
ladies of the party were absent. Mr. Pym hid his surprise at seeing so
distinguished-looking an officer at such an out-of-the-way camp, and
received his somewhat curt greetings in his own quiet, business-like
manner. He thanked him for the attentions he had already rendered, and
hoped they were not causing any inconvenience in pitching their tents
near the ruins. Carew assured him they were not, and mentioned that
Mr. Stanley would be happy to place his time at their service and do
anything he could to make their stay agreeable.

Henry Pym, noting the obvious intention of the officer not to place
much of his own time at their disposal, looked quietly into the
resolute face, and felt his interest growing apace. At the same time,
following his lead, he made no attempt to lengthen the interview,
which he felt was more or less regarded as an official duty; and with
courteous thanks said good night, hoped Major Carew would dine with
them one evening, and returned to his tent.

"Well, uncle," was Diana's greeting, "what do you make of The Bear?"

"The Bear?..." questioningly.

"The cast-iron soldierman, who condescends to breathe the same air as
ordinary mortals down there in the police camp."

"O, Major Carew!..." with a quick gleam in his eyes. "I thought him
rather a fine fellow. Don't you?" and he smiled at her slyly.

"A fine bear," quoth Diana, with a little pout. "I prefer a man with a
little more flexibility. A little more comm