have to invite Gilbert to stay here as our permanent
guest," said Mr. Grey, pleasantly.

While he spoke Gilbert could not help wondering what had come over him
to make him so different from what he was in Cincinnati. There he was
rough, insulting, and abusive. Now he was the model of courtesy. It was
hard to believe him the same man. Gilbert was not very credulous, but
he was thoroughly deceived by his altered manner.

"I suppose he really believed me an impostor when we met in
Cincinnati," said he to himself. "Now he begins to think that he was
mistaken, and is trying to make it up to me."

Nevertheless, there were one or two things which interfered with this
view. Why should his uncle have schemed so eagerly to get dishonest
possession of the confession unless he believed it to be genuine, and
therefore dangerous? That did not seem honorable. What had happened
since to change him?

After reflection, this was the conclusion to which our hero came: His
uncle had made up his mind that he (Gilbert) had a strong case, and
meant to conciliate him in the hope of a favorable compromise.
Otherwise what object could he have in treating him with so much
politeness and attention?

Gilbert was a smart boy, or perhaps I should say, young man, but he was
not yet acquainted with the "ways that are dark, and the tricks that
are vain," to which human craft is often led to resort. Least of all
did he suspect any danger to himself from the uncle and cousin, who
seemed to vie with each other in ministering to his enjoyment.

"Well, Jasper," said his father, the next morning, as they were seated
at breakfast, "what plans have you for the enjoyment of our guest?"

"You ride on horseback, don't you, Gilbert?" inquired his cousin.

"Yes, I can ride a little."

"Wouldn't you like a gallop after breakfast?"

Gilbert responded readily in the affirmative. He had taken riding
lessons in the city, and was accustomed to ride, whenever he had a
chance, in the environs of the city. He was, in truth, an excellent
rider, having taken lessons of an accomplished teacher, who often
referred to him as one of the most proficient of his pupils. But when
Jasper questioned him he only answered that he rode a little, having a
strong disinclination to boast.

"I should think that would be an agreeable plan," said Mr. Grey. "What
horses shall you take?"

"I will ride on my own. I am used to her, and don't like to change."

"How will you mount Gilbe