to ask a woman to marry whilst
there is a secret which cannot be told. Especially when there are those
who may believe that there is shame or worse, concealed."

"No one would dare to so misjudge you!"

"Indeed, but you are mistaken. There are those who do not count me as
irreproachable as I may seem to you. What if I were to tell you that a
detective watches me day and night?"

"Oho? That would not frighten me. You have explained all about your
wager. I suppose Mr. Barnes is keeping an eye on you. Is that it?"

"Partly that, and partly because he thinks that I am connected with this
murdered woman. To a certain extent he is right."

"You mean that you knew her?"

"Yes." Mr. Mitchel paused to see whether she would ask another question
after his admission. But she meant all that she had said when asserting
that she trusted him. She remained silent. Mr. Mitchel continued:
"Naturally Mr. Barnes is desirous of learning how much I know. There are
urgent reasons why I do not wish him to do so. You have it in your power
to aid me."

"I will do so!"

"You have not heard what it is that I wish."

"I do not care what it is. I will do it if you ask me."

"You are worthy of my love." He drew her gently towards him, and kissed
her lightly on the lips. "I say it not in egotism, for I love you as
much as man may. Were you unworthy--I should never love again."

"You may trust me, Roy." Her words were simple, but there was a passion
of truth contained in their utterance.

"I will tell you at once, what I wish. For it must be done promptly. You
must be ready--Who is that?"

Mr. Mitchel spoke the last two words in a sharp tone, rising from his
seat and taking a step forward. The large room was but dimly lighted,
the gas having been lowered to please Emily who abhorred well-lighted
rooms. At the further end some one was standing, and had attracted Mr.
Mitchel's attention. It was Lucette, and she replied at once:

"Your mother sent me to know if you are ready for supper, Miss Emily."

"Say that we will be in, in a few minutes," replied Emily, and Lucette
left the room.

"Who is that girl?" asked Mr. Mitchel.

Emily explained how the new maid had been engaged and Mr. Mitchel
speaking in a tone louder than was really necessary, said:

"She seems to be a quiet, good girl. Rather too quiet, for she startled
me coming in so noiselessly. Shall we go in? What I have to tell you
will keep. It is something I wish you to do for