I judge these things
by their face value, without any preconceived notions or prejudices. I
have to begin _de novo_, and perhaps can't take into account all the
forces which have been growing up through the ages. But, Heavens! man,
this is a crisis! and if we are going to win this war, not only must
every one do his bit, but all that weakens and all that destroys the
resources of the nation must be annihilated!'

Our conversation came abruptly to an end at that moment, caused by the
entrance of my orderly, who told me that a gentleman wished to see me.

'Who is it, Jenkins?' I asked.

'Major St. Mabyn, sir.'

He had scarcely spoken when, with a lack of ceremony common at the
front, George St. Mabyn entered.

'Ah, there you are, Luscombe! Did you know that both Springfield and I
have had a remove? We got here last night. I fancy there are going to
be busy times. I was awfully glad when I heard you were here too.'

'No, I never heard of your coming,' I replied, 'but this is really a
great piece of luck.'

I had scarcely uttered the words, when I turned towards Paul Edgecumbe,
who was looking steadily at St. Mabyn. There was no suggestion of
recognition in his eyes, but I noticed that far-away wistful look, as
though he were trying to remember something.

Instinctively I turned towards George St. Mabyn, who at that moment
first gave a glance at Edgecumbe. Then I felt sure that although
Edgecumbe knew nothing of St. Mabyn, his presence startled the other
very considerably. There was a look in George St. Mabyn's eyes
difficult to describe; doubt, wonder, fear, astonishment, were all
there. His ruddy cheeks became pale, too, and I was sure his lips
quivered.

'Who--who have you got here?' he asked.

'It's a chap who has got knocked about in a scrap,' I replied.

St. Mabyn gave Edgecumbe a second look, and then I thought his face
somewhat cleared. His colour came back; his lips ceased twitching.

'What did you say your name was, my man?'

'Edgecumbe, sir.'

'D.C.L.I., I see.'

'Yes, sir.' He saluted as he spoke, and left the room, while George
St. Mabyn stood looking after him.

CHAPTER VIII

I BECOME AN EAVESDROPPER

For some seconds he was silent, while I, with a score of conflicting
thoughts in my mind, stood watching him. I had often wondered how I
could bring these two men together, for, while I had but little reason
to believe that they were in any way connected, I was constant