ve got to do something, and do it quick. But it'll never
do for you to be seen. Once they know we're together, the game's up. I
can't have you larking round with the servants either. You'll spoil the
whole show. You've got to go back to Dullhampton this afternoon."

"What! that little one-horse fishing-town?"

"Yes, that's where you're wanted. It's the nearest port to Blanford, and
it's where they'll try and get out of the country if they're hard
pressed. You just stay there and keep your eyes open till you hear from
me."

The tramp growled surlily, and reluctantly prepared to obey.

"Now, then," said Marchmont shortly, "get a move on. Yes, you can take
the provender with you. It'll help to keep your mouth shut."

As the tramp slouched round the corner and out of sight, his master
stretched himself comfortably on the ground, and supporting his head on
one arm, with his straw hat tilted over his eyes to protect them from
the sun, he proceeded to go peacefully to sleep.

Scarcely had the journalist composed himself to slumber, when the ruins
were invaded by the party from the palace. It was now about a month
since Cecil and his friends had arrived at Blanford, and though this
expedition to the old abbey had been often discussed, one thing and
another had intervened to prevent its being put into execution.

After her first burst of antagonism, Miss Matilda had settled down to a
formal hospitality which was, if anything, more disconcerting. Tybalt
Smith alone had achieved a favourable position in her eyes, and this
only as the result of a very considerable amount of flattery and
attention. At first his friends were at a loss to account for his
attitude, but as time went on it appeared that the tragedian had not
exerted himself for nothing. "The dear Professor" frequently had his
breakfast in bed when he was too lazy to get up, and Miss Matilda
considered the delicate state of his health required the daily stimulus
of a pint of champagne. He also had the exclusive use of her victoria in
the afternoon, and even if this did necessitate an occasional attendance
at missionary meetings and penny readings, it was after all but a fair
return for value received. On this occasion he had begged off going to
the picnic, and was spending a luxurious day at the palace, waited on by
the Bishop's sister.

The party, having arrived at the abbey, promptly separated to explore
the ruins, his Lordship gallantly offering to play the par