as you are."

"I told you that I was in debt, Sir Harry."

"I wanted no telling as to that; but I did want telling as to your
mode of life, and I have had it now. You had better not press me. You
had better see Mr. Boltby. He will tell you what I am willing to do
for you upon receiving your written assurance that you will never
renew your offer of marriage to Miss Hotspur."

"I cannot do that," said Cousin George, hoarsely.

"Then I shall leave you with your creditors to deal with as they
please. I have nothing further to suggest myself, and I would
recommend that you should see Mr. Boltby before you leave the
chambers."

"What does my cousin say?" he asked.

"Were you at Goodwood last meeting?" asked Sir Harry. "But of course
you were."

"I was," he answered. He was obliged to acknowledge so much, not
quite knowing what Stackpoole might have said or done. "But I can
explain that."

"There is no need whatever of any explanation. Do you generally
borrow money from such ladies as Mrs. Morton?" Cousin George blushed
when this question was asked, but made no answer to it. It was one
that he could not answer. "But it makes no difference, Captain
Hotspur. I mention these things only to let you feel that I know you.
I must decline any further speech with you. I strongly advise you to
see Mr. Boltby at once. Good afternoon."

So saying, the Baronet withdrew quickly, and Cousin George heard him
shut the door of the chambers.

After considering the matter for a quarter of an hour, Cousin George
made up his mind that he would see the lawyer. No harm could come
to him from seeing the lawyer. He was closeted with Mr. Boltby for
nearly an hour, and before he left the chamber had been forced to
confess to things of which he had not thought it possible that Mr.
Boltby should ever have heard. Mr. Boltby knew the whole story of
the money raised on the commission, of the liabilities to both Hart
and Stubber, and had acquainted himself with the history of Lord
Baldebeque's cheque. Mr. Boltby was not indignant, as had been Sir
Harry, but intimated it as a thing beyond dispute that a man who had
done such things as could be proved against Cousin George,--and as
would undoubtedly be proved against him if he would not give up his
pursuit of the heiress,--must be disposed of with severity, unless
he retreated at once of his own accord. Mr. Boltby did indeed hint
something about a criminal prosecution, and utter ruin,
and--incarc