ens, the Suydams--and James
Wayward is the last of his race, and I am the last of the French
refugees, and the Malcourts are already ended. Pax!

"True it begins to look as if the gentleman adventurer stock
which terminates in the Ascotts and Portlaws might be revived to
struggle on for another generation; but, Garry, we all, who
intermarry, are doomed.

"Louis Malcourt was right; we are destined to perish; Still we
have left our marks on the nation I care for no other epitaph
than the names of counties, cities, streets which we have named
with our names.

"But you, dear, you are wise in your generation and fortunate to
love as you love. For, God willing, your race will begin the
welding of the old and new, the youngest and best of the nation.
And at the feet of such a race the whole world lies."

* * * * *

These letters from Constance Palliser to her nephew continued during the
autumn and early winter while he was at work on that series of public
parks provided for by the metropolis on Long Island.

Once he was obliged to return to Pride's Hall to inspect the progress of
work for Mrs. Ascott; and it happened during his brief stay there that
her engagement was announced.

"I tell you what, Hamil," said Portlaw confidentailly over their cigars,
"I never thought I could win her, never in the world. Besides poor Louis
was opposed to it; but you know when I make up my mind--"

"I know," said Hamil.

"That's it! First, a man must have a mind to make up; then he must have
enough intelligence to make it up."

"Certainly," nodded Hamil.

"I'm glad you understand me," said Portlaw, gratified. "Alida
understands me; why, do you know that, somehow, everything I think of
she seems to agree to; in fact, sometimes--on one or two unimportant
matters, I actually believe that Mrs. Ascott thought of what I thought
of, a few seconds before I thought of it," he ended generously; "but,"
and his expression became slyly portentous, "it would never do to have
her suspect it. I intend to be Caesar in my own house!"

"Exactly," said Hamil solemnly; "and Caesar's wife must have no
suspicions."

* * * * *

It was early November before he returned to town. His new suite of
offices in Broad Street hummed with activity, although the lingering
aftermath of the business depression prevented for the time being any
hope of new commi