ine that the most
important matter is that you were driven out of a calling you liked and
were sent here, ruined in repute and fortune. Are you satisfied with
your lot? Haven't you the courage to insist on being reinstated?"

"My reinstation would be difficult," Blake said curtly.

"It would be at the expense of----"

Blake stopped him with a gesture. He would have left the house only
that he was curious to learn where Clarke's suggestions led, and how
much he knew.

There was a moment's silence, and then Clarke went on:

"A young man of ability, with means and influence behind him, has a
choice of careers in England; and there's another point to be
considered: you might wish to marry. That, of course, is out of the
question now."

"It will no doubt remain so," Blake replied, with the color creeping
into his set face.

"Then you have given up all idea of clearing yourself? The thing may
be easier than you imagine if properly handled." Clarke paused and
added significantly: "In fact, I could show you a way in which the
matter could be straightened out without causing serious trouble to
anybody concerned; that is, if you are disposed to take me into your
confidence."

Blake got up, filled with anger and uneasiness. He had no great faith
in Harding's scheme; his life as a needy adventurer had its trials; but
he had no intention of changing it. This was an old resolve, but it
was disconcerting to feel that an unscrupulous fellow was anxious to
meddle with his affairs, for Clarke had obviously implied the
possibility of putting some pressure upon Colonel Challoner. Blake
shrank from the suggestion; it was not to be thought of.

"I have nothing more to say on the subject," he answered sternly. "It
must be dropped."

Somewhat to his surprise, Clarke acquiesced good-humoredly, after a
keen glance at him.

"As you wish. However, that needn't prevent my giving you the
directions I promised, particularly as it may help me to earn fifty
dollars. I believe Benson spent some time with you this morning; are
you taking him?"

Blake started. He wondered how the man could have guessed; but he
admitted that Benson was going.

"You may find him a drag, but that's your affair," Clarke said in a
tone of indifference. "Now sit down and make a careful note of what I
tell you."

Believing that the information might be of service, Blake did as he was
told, and then took his leave. When he had gone, a curious sm