college I then
despised! That is your work, my friend,--making me realize my
obligation.--Hold on a minute: I want to add to that document! My
bequest shall go to Harvard as the 'William Montgomery Huntington
Foundation, given by a friend, the income to be used to foster larger
acquaintance and closer intimacy amongst the members of each freshman
class.' Make a note of that, will you? There may be other changes."

Huntington made the necessary notations. It was best to humor him until
his entire plan was outlined.

"Now, as to the estate in Bermuda," he went on. "You see what I've done
with it,--but have I been quite delicate? This whole affair, and its
outcome, will be humiliating to that sensitive little girl, and this
might be a constant reminder. I would like her to have it; she would
appreciate my trees and my flowers,--their fragrance might help her to
forget my grave offense. Then again, perhaps Marian would see in this
act an effort on my part to atone. I couldn't leave it to her, but do
you think the girl would understand my motive?"

"Better than any one I know," Huntington replied.

Hamlen seemed to have reached the end of his elaboration, and was
silent.

"How soon is this remarkable document to become operative?" Huntington
demanded.

"Six months from to-day if you do not hear from me to the contrary, or
upon receiving proof of death."

"All right," Huntington rejoined with apparent complacency. "I'll have
it drafted in proper form and you can execute it to-morrow or next day.
Now listen to me."

Hamlen looked up at him anxiously. Everything was progressing so well
that the new tone in Huntington's voice gave him apprehension.

"It is always well to have these matters provided for, and if you
haven't a will it is time you drew one up. As to the disposition of your
property, it is yours to do with as you like, and I appreciate the
compliment you have paid to me. Up to this point I have no right to
interfere."

Hamlen stiffened at the suggestion of interference. "There are limits,"
he said quietly, "even to the rights of a friendship such as ours."

"True; but we haven't begun to reach them yet. You acknowledge--don't
you?--that you still have an obligation to our Alma Mater which is
unsatisfied?"

"I think I have acknowledged that in a substantial way," Hamlen replied,
surprised.

"What can you think of an Alma Mater which would accept money in
exchange for the life of one of her sons? Do y