pless woman whose hand you
have obtained, but whose love you have never sought. Your offer is
specious, but to accept it would be wickedness in me, degradation to
her. I know well that she would die rather than escape your vengeance on
such terms. I reject them utterly!"

"It is well," said the old man, pale and trembling in his turn, "I have
at least this left;" and gathering up Mabel's book, he seemed preparing
to go out.

"But," said James Harrington, still with great self-possession, "I am
ready to purchase the tranquillity of your wife on other terms. Give me
that book--pledge your solemn word of honor that its contents shall
never be mentioned again to mortal being--leave Mabel Harrington in the
entire enjoyment of her home and station, exactly as she has received
them during her married life, and I will at once give you entire control
of my income during your natural life, only reserving for myself enough
for a bare subsistence. I will leave this house to-morrow. Henceforth, I
will hold no communication with you or your family. As you said, the
world is broad--any place will answer for one who has no hopes."

The old man was so taken by surprise that he could not answer, but sat
searching the face before him with eager scrutiny.

"And you will do this?"

"I will."

"Without entering into explanation with her, or any one else?"

"Explanations are impossible. The family will understand that I am
suddenly called away; after that, any prolonged absence can be accounted
for. But remember, sir, this lady's tranquillity must be assured beyond
a chance of revocation; on that rests the validity of any deed I shall
draw. The day and hour in which her position is in the slightest degree
impaired, no matter from what cause, and I return, though it were from
the uttermost ends of the earth, to resume my own and protect her."

"Have no fear," answered the general, with an impatient wave of the
hand. "The shelter of my roof, and the protection of my name, will
ensure all; these I promise never to withdraw."

"And that book?"

"Shall be kept secret as the grave!"

"It must be burned before I leave the room!"

The old man was about to hesitate, and demand the life-deed before he
surrendered Mabel's journal; but there was a stern dignity in his
step-son that checked the mean impulse. He knew well that no bond would
be held more sacred than that man's word. James read the thought with a
smile of contempt, and turned