psed
memories and living pictures that suggested even profiles or silhouettes
of once familiar views took on new significance and transfigured tints.

The second Sunday after Oswald's arrival in New York he attended morning
services at St. Thomas' Church, and afterward strolled over to Central
Park. He is seated near the statue of Alexander Hamilton. While
pondering over the tragic fate of this "great secretary," Oswald failed
to notice an elegantly dressed gentleman who in passing stared
inquiringly. Looking up, he sees a familiar face smiling in questioning
surprise. Claude Leslie grasps Oswald's extended hand, and with many an
ejaculated "Well!" leads him to the carriage.

During Oswald's reverie, Claude, in passing, caught a view of that
handsome face which so often lighted with its fine expressions in
Himalaya camp. The carriage stops, and Claude returns to confirm his
impression. With offhand cordiality, Claude takes charge of this
interesting friend.

Though Oswald feels some embarrassment and a little doubt as to the
outcome, he can but rejoice at such welcome change. Fortunately Claude
is alone in the carriage. Explanations need not be heard by others.
Besides, Claude had shown respect for Oswald's reserve.

During their ride through the park they chat pleasantly about former
experiences. Claude asks where his friend is stopping, and suggests that
when convenient he would like to show him the sights. However, he will
not intrude on Oswald's time, except when agreeable.

"I have all the time there is, but you may have your own plans."

That evening Oswald accepted an invitation to dine at his friend's
elegant apartments. There were no other guests.

Claude learns that Oswald will not object to limited acquaintance with
congenial people, and likes seeing objects of local interest.

They mingled quite freely with prominent male residents, and met not a
few popular local celebrities of the gentler sex.

Though having no hint as to the nature of Oswald's troubles, Claude was
most considerate. When shielding his friend from possible
embarrassments, there was such apparent offhand frankness that for the
time Oswald forgot former stresses. Even Claude's silences or evasive
replies to questions about his friend's past life seemed casual
inadvertence or preoccupation.

Claude Leslie had easy entree to both business and social circles.

Oswald attributed gracious greetings and cordial welcomes to Claude's
tac