ife has been without reproach, sir," observed Mr. Jerrold, who
wondered what strange revelation was to be made.

"No compliments; they nauseate me. I sent for you this morning to
propose something which you may, or may not, accede to, there being a
condition annexed that may not be altogether agreeable. But however it
may be, I wish you to understand distinctly that I do it to suit my own
ends and pleasure, and if I could do otherwise I would."

"I am very confident, sir, that you will not propose any thing to me
incompatible with honor and integrity," said Walter Jerrold.

"No, sir. No; it is a fair bargain--a fair, honest, business
transaction I offer, by which you will gain not only credit, but
profit. In view of this object, I have been for two days engaged in an
investigation of your character."

"Really, Mr. Stillinghast!" began the young man, with a haughty look.

"Investigating your character, sir. I have made inquiries of your
friends and foes concerning your habits, your business associations,
your antecedents--"

"For what purpose, sir?" inquired Walter Jerrold, flushing up.

"_To see if I might trust you._"

"And the result of this strange procedure?"

"Is favorable throughout. I congratulate you, sir, on being without
reproach in your business relations. You will suit me to a nicety. I
lost two years ago the old man who sat at this desk for the last forty
years. He was the only friend I had in the wide earth. He was my prop
and support, and now that he is gone, I feel tottering and weak. I
want some one to assist me in the cares of my immense business; a
partner, young, active, and possessed of just the requisites which you
have."

Walter Jerrold's eyes lit up with an expression of wild triumph. He
could scarcely believe his own ears; he thought it was a cheating dream
that the millionnaire, Stillinghast--the bitter, inaccessible old man,
should offer him something so far beyond his most sanguine hopes;
advantages which he had intended to intrigue, and toil unceasingly for,
but which were now thrown into his very hands.

"Do you understand me, Mr. Jerrold?"

"I hear you, sir, but really fear you are jesting at my expense."

"_I never jest_, sir. It has been so long since I jested that the word
has become meaningless to me. But, as I said, there is a condition--"

"Allow me to hear it, Mr. Stillinghast," said Walter Jerrold, fearing
at least it might be something dreadful and im