g which
it is important to know. For instance, the writer gives reasons for
making his statement. Very well expressed, no doubt, but we don't want
reasons. Then, again, he offers his own opinion on the right course to
take. Very creditable to him, but I don't want his opinion--I want his
facts. Take the pen, my secretary, and set down his facts. Never mind
his reflections."

Proud and pleased, Sydney obeyed him. She had made her little abstract,
and was reading it to him at his request, while he compared it with the
report, when they were interrupted by a visitor. Randal Linley came in,
and noticed the papers on the table with surprise. "Is it possible that
I am interrupting business?" he asked.

Bennydeck answered with the assumed air of importance which was in
itself a compliment to Sydney: "You find me engaged on the business of
the Home with my new secretary."

Randal at once understood what had happened. He took his friend's arm,
and led him to the other end of the room.

"You good fellow!" he said. "Add to your kindness by excusing me if I
ask for a word with you in private."

Sydney rose to retire. After having encouraged her by a word of praise,
the Captain proposed that she should get ready to go out, and should
accompany him on a visit to the Home. He opened the door for her as
respectfully as if the poor girl had been one of the highest ladies in
the land.

"I have seen my friend Sarrazin," Randal began, "and I have persuaded
him to trust me with Catherine's present address. I can send Herbert
there immediately, if you will only help me."

"How can I help you?"

"Will you allow me to tell my brother that your engagement is broken
off?"

Bennydeck shrank from the painful allusion, and showed it.

Randal explained. "I am grieved," he said, "to distress you by referring
to this subject again. But if my brother is left under the false
impression that your engagement will be followed by your marriage, he
will refuse to intrude himself on the lady who was once his wife."

The Captain understood. "Say what you please about me," he replied.
"Unite the father and child--and you may reconcile the husband and
wife."

"Have you forgotten," Randal asked, "that the marriage has been
dissolved?"

Bennydeck's answer ignored the law. "I remember," he said, "that the
marriage has been profaned."

Chapter LV. Leave It to the Child.

The front windows of Brightwater Cottage look out on a quiet green