her bad, and the remnant of honor
which still glowed in his breast rose against the idea of such a
sacrifice. And yet--it was for the woman he loved!

The perspiration broke out on his pale face, and he looked from the
stern eyes of the earl to Nell's downcast ones.

"I can't stand this!" broke from his lips. "Look here, Wolfer!"

The earl raised his head.

"I have nothing to say to you. I decline to hear you," he said grimly.
"I am addressing Miss Lorton. I have asked her a question; but it is not
necessary to inflict the pain of an answer. I am aware that I have no
legal right to interfere in Miss Lorton's movements, but she is under my
roof, she is a connection"--his voice grew a shade less stern--"I am,
indeed, almost in the position of her guardian. Therefore, I deem it my
duty to acquaint her with the character of the man with whom she
proposes to--elope."

Nell raised her head, the crimson staining her whole face; and it seemed
to Sir Archie as if her endurance had broken down; but she checked the
indignant denial which had sprung to her lips, and, closing her lips
tightly, sank back into her former attitude--an attitude which convinced
Lord Wolfer of her guilt.

"Are you aware that this gentleman, who has honored you by an invitation
to fly with him, is already a married man, Miss Lorton?"

Nell made no sign, but Sir Archie started and ground his teeth.

"He has carefully concealed the fact; but--well, I happen to know it, and
I think he will not venture to deny it."

He paused, but Sir Archie remained silent.

"Were you ignorant of it?" asked the earl.

Nell opened her lips, and they formed the word "Yes."

"I expected as much," said the earl. "And now that you know the truth,
are you still desirous of accompanying him?"

Nell, with her eyes fixed on the ground, shook her head.

"No!" she whispered.

Sir Archie swore under his breath.

"I can't stand this!" he said desperately. "Look here, Wolfer, you are
making a damnable mistake. Miss Lorton----"

The earl turned to him, but looked above his head.

"Excuse me," he said, "I have no desire to hear any explanation of your
conduct--it would be impossible for you to defend it. But, having
received Miss Lorton's reply to my question, I have the right to ask you
to quit my house--and I do so!"

Sir Archie went up to Nell and looked at her straight in the face.

"Do you--do you wish me to remain silent?" he said hoarsely. "Think
before you sp