ts he sat speechless, then in husky tones said:

"Your proposition seems most fair and honorable. I will think it over,
and soon return."

In leaving, Sir Donald extends his hand. Pierre hesitates, then offers
his own. Grasping that reserved palm, Sir Donald feels it tremble,
while Pierre's body seems to collapse against the wall of his cell.

That there is any shamming or covert deceit in this strange proposition,
Sir Donald now has not a semblance of suspicion.

After a conference with Thomas Webster, Sir Donald hastens back to the
prison. He assures Pierre that the offer will be accepted.

"No pledges have been exacted and none will be given, but it will be my
pleasure to alleviate in all possible ways Paul's unfortunate state."

Sir Donald then says:

"May it not be hoped that you can find some help in your own troubles?"

To this Pierre makes no reply, but turns away his face. In leaving, Sir
Donald asks:

"When will it best suit you to give an inventory and make transfers?"

Pierre answers:

"The sooner the better. Please attend to it at once. You will know just
how to proceed."

Next day Sir Donald visits at the prison, and obtains a full statement
of property in Calcutta and London in which the estate of William
Webster has interest. There is nothing said about the manner in which
Pierre obtained possession. This strange criminal is making no detailed
confession, but Sir Donald doubts not that restitution will be
complete. Pierre tells what Calcutta banks are custodians of papers,
shares of stock, other muniments of title and moneys. Minute
descriptions of real property and chattels are given. Much of all this
is held by trusted agents as ostensible owners, but he gives their names
and addresses. Pierre will sign proper orders, and convey at any time
all his interests and equities.

At an early after visit all necessary papers are duly executed, and
Thomas Webster is constituted Pierre's lawful agent to make any further
transfers. Pierre tells where may be found those unrecorded deeds
perfecting Alice Webster's title to the London property.

The now earnest man evinces a strong determination that restitution be
complete. To some suggestion of Sir Donald and Thomas Webster, that
certain formalities could be waived, as they have no doubt of Pierre's
good faith, he becomes impatient, and insists on compliance with every
legal requirement.

Fortified with these documents, Thomas Webster soon left f