ssible that he contemplated any terrible wickedness? The mere
apprehension made her blood run cold.

"O Gilly, swear to me that you will not harbour evil thoughts, that
you will put aside the devil who is prompting and luring you to some
awful crime!"

"Psha, Phillipa, you ought to have gone into the Church. Moderate your
transports--here comes one of the footmen."

"A person to see you, sir," said the servant. "He 'aven't got any
card, but his business is very particular."

"I can't see him; send him away. If he won't go call the police."

"Says his name, sir, is Shubenacady."

"Take him to the library; I'll come."

Jillingham's face was rather pale, and his lips were set firm when he
met his visitor.

"What the mischief do you want?"

"Five thou--ten--what you please. I know of a splendid investment."

"In soap?"

He was the dirtiest creature that ever was seen. He wore a full suit
of black, but the coat and trousers were white with age and
dust-stains; an open waistcoat, exposing an embroidered shirt which
could not have been washed for months; his hat was napless, and had a
limp brim; no gloves, and the grimiest of hands. But he was decorated,
and wore a ribbon, probably of St. Lucifer.

"In soap, or shavings, or shoddy; what does it matter to you? When can
I have the money?"

"Never; not another sixpence."

"Then I shall publish all I know."

"No one will believe you."

"I have proofs."

"Which are forged. I tell you I'm too strong for you: you will find
yourself in the wrong box. I am sick of this; and I mean to put an end
to your extortion."

"You dare me. You know the consequences."

"The first consequence will be that I shall give you in charge. Be
off!"

"You shall have a week to think better of it."

Gilly rang the bell.

"Shall I send for a policeman, or will you go?"

He went, muttering imprecations intermixed with threats; but Gilly
Jillingham, quite proud of his courage, seemed for the moment callous
to both. He little dreamt how soon the latter would be put into
effect.

Within a few days of this interview the greatest event of Mrs.
Purling's whole social career was due; she was to entertain royalty
beneath her own roof. This crowning of the edifice of her ambition
filled her with solemn awe; the preparations for the coming ball were
stupendous, her own magnificent costume seemed made up of diamonds and
bullion and five-pound notes.

Long before the hour of reception s