magistrate near us just now
but Sir Thomas Moystyn; and as it concerns his own nephew, there cannot
be a more proper person. I will go up to the Hall immediately, and ask
him to come with me to-morrow morning.'

"Mr Sewell did so; and the next day, he and Sir Thomas Moystyn came
down in a phaeton, and went up to old Roberts. I rather turned away,
that my uncle, as he now proves to be, might not, when I was regularly
introduced to him, as I hope to be, as his nephew, recognise me as the
sailor lad who passed off as the grandson of old Roberts."

"Then, you admit that you have been playing a very deceitful game?"

"Yes, Miss Valerie. I have a conscience; and I admit that I have been
playing what may be called an unworthy game; but when it is considered
how much I have at stake, and how long I have been defrauded of my
rights by the duplicity of others, I think I may be excused if I have
beat them at their own weapons."

"I admit that there is great truth in your observations, Lionel; and
that is all the answer I shall give."

"I remained outside the door while old Roberts signed the paper, and the
oath was administered. Sir Thomas put many questions afterwards. He
inquired the residence of his daughter, Mrs Green, and then they both
went away. As soon as they were gone, I went in to old Roberts, and
said, `Well now, sir, do you not feel happier that you have made the
confession?'

"`Yes,' replied he, `I do, boy; but still I am scared when I think of
Lady R--and your aunt Green; they'll be so angry.'

"`I've been thinking that I had better go up to Mrs Green,' I said,
`and prepare her for it. I can pacify her, I'm sure, when I explain
matters. I must have gone away the day after to-morrow, and I'll go up
to London to-morrow.'

"`Well, perhaps it will be as well,' replied old Roberts, `and yet I
wish you could stay and talk to me--I've no one to talk to me now.'

"Thinks I, I have made you talk to some purpose, and have no inclination
to sit by your bed-side any longer; however, I kept up the appearance to
the last, and the next morning set off for London. I arrived three days
before I saw you first, which gave me time to change my sailor's dress
for the suit I now wear. I have not yet been to Mrs Green, for I
thought I would just see you, and ask your advice. And now, Miss
Valerie, you have my whole history."

"I once more congratulate you, with all my heart," replied I, offering
my hand to Lionel.