oods. Paul sees in these,
hints of possible estrangement, and suits his manners to every change.

Agnes discreetly limits Paul's calls to proper times. The intervals
between these visits he endures under protest. Paul becomes still more
hopelessly infatuated, and is ready to applaud any suggestion of this
charming girl. Loyal to her unspoken whims, he would not hesitate at any
act she might seem to approve. Agnes' caprices multiply with Paul's
increasing acquiescence. There are many blanks in her narratives, and
Paul feels these must be properly filled.

Agnes seems bored at commonplace talk, never appearing really happy
except when listening to Paul's telling of questionable exploits wherein
he was the central figure. Hints at successful craft, vindictive temper,
swift retribution, and bootless pursuit are sure of thrilling
appreciation. But those bewitching smiles subsiding, Paul is obliged to
regain favor by more explicit recitals, seconded by her pertinent
questioning.

By slow processes the story is told. Names, dates, and places have been
misstated, but such inadvertences are not misleading.

Circumstances correct particular errata.

Some time after the departure of Sir Charles and Pierre Lanier for
Calcutta, Agnes informs Paul that her uncle has sailed for Bombay. She
had received word to that effect, and his letter was of most cheerful
tone.

Paul expects a favorable decision, and with pleasant emotions awaits the
arrival of Sir Charles. Agnes requests that Paul defer again calling
before Thursday. This will be two days, but she wishes to avoid scandal.
Comments have been made by cheap tattlers about his frequent visits.

"Perhaps in a little while there will be no need for such care."

Paul is pleased at the modest suggestion. He looks forward to marriage
with this aristocratic heiress, and the future is most luminous. Even
haunting memories of Alice Webster and Oswald Langdon fail to dampen
Paul's expectant joy. These recede, their menacing voices stilled by
hope's siren lullaby.

Upon Thursday evening Paul calls upon Agnes, according to appointment.
The servant ushers him into the private room of Sir Charles. This seems
strange, but Paul thinks it some caprice of Agnes. There is but one
chair in the room, and this faces the door through which Paul expects
Agnes to enter. The lights are dim and throw fitful shadows. Though
feeling a superstitious sense, Paul's strong nerves brace against all
"uncann