, "we have not been able as yet to get at the
bottom of it. I confess that the case has certainly very grave features
connected with it, but it is by no means clear that--"

"There is no need for further statement, Mr. Rae," said Sir Archibald.
"I know all about it. It is a clear case of forgery. The facts have all
been laid before me, and I have given my instructions."

"And what may these be, may I inquire?" said the Captain somewhat
haughtily.

"The usual instructions, Sir, where the Bank of Scotland is concerned,
instructions to prosecute." Sir Archibald's lips shut in a firm, thin
line. As far as he was concerned the matter was closed.

"But, Sir," exclaimed the Captain, "this young man is my son."

"I deeply regret it," replied Sir Archibald.

"Yes, Sir, he is my son, and the honour of my family is involved."

Sir Archibald bowed.

"I am here prepared to offer the fullest reparation, to offer the most
generous terms of settlement; in short, I am willing to do anything in
reason to have this matter--this unfortunate matter--hushed up."

"Hushed up!" exclaimed Sir Archibald. "Captain Cameron, it is
impossible. I am grieved for you, but I have a duty to the Bank in this
matter."

"Do you mean to say, Sir," cried the Captain, "that you refuse to
consider any arrangement or compromise or settlement of any kind
whatever? I am willing to pay the amount ten times over, rather than
have my name dragged through legal proceedings."

"It is quite impossible," said Sir Archibald.

"Come, come, Sir Archibald," said the Captain, exercising an unusual
self-control; "let us look at this thing as two gentlemen should who
respect each other, and who know what is due to our--ah--class."

It was an unfortunate remark of the Captain's.

"Our class, Sir? I presume you mean the class of gentlemen. All that
is due to our class or any other class is strict justice, and that you,
Sir, or any other gentleman, shall receive to the very fullest in this
matter. The honour of the Bank, which I regard as a great National
Institution charged with National responsibilities, is involved, as is
also my own personal honour. I sincerely trust your son may be cleared
of every charge of crime, but this case must be prosecuted to the very
fullest degree."

"And do you mean to tell me, Sir Archibald," exclaimed the Captain, now
in a furious passion, "that for the sake of a few paltry pounds you will
blast my name and my family name in thi