e a
glass, just so as to warm you up to it, and then get it over."

Captain Barber made no reply, but turning round led the way slowly back
to the inn, and after acknowledging the respectful salutations of the
crew of the schooner who were in the bar by ordering the landlady to
fill their pots again, led the way into the parlour and began to charge
himself for the interview.

That he did not underestimate the difficulties of the ordeal was
evident by the extent of his orders, and Captain Nibletts noted with
satisfaction as the evening wore on that the old man's spirits were
improving considerably. Twice he sent out instructions to the bar to
have the men's mugs replenished, a proceeding which led to Mr. William
Green being sent by the grateful crew to express their feelings in a
neat little speech.

"A very nice-spoken young fellow," said Captain Barber, approvingly.

He had some more whisky, and at the sounds of a step-dance on the brick
floor of the adjoining taproom, took up his glass, and, followed by
Nibletts, watched the proceedings from the doorway. Mr. William Green,
who worshipped wealth and position, sidled up to him, and with much
deference discussed the dancing.

He made such a favourable impression that Cap-tain Barber, who was in a
semi-maudlin mood, took him by the arm to the now deserted parlour, and
ensconcing him in a corner, told him all his troubles and warned him of
the pitfalls which beset the feet of good-looking bachelors. Mr. Green
was sympathy itself, and for some time sat silently evolving various
schemes for the deliverance of his patron.

Captain Nibletts returning to the parlour a little later found them
in close consultation. A ray of hope illuminated the somewhat heavy
features of the old man, and, catching sight of the captain, he beckoned
him to his side.

"Me an' this young man have thought of something," he said, in a voice
rendered husky with excitement.

Nibletts waited.

"He's goin' to call at my place," continued the other, "and tell Mrs.
Church that I've been took unwell at the Cauliflower at Mapleden, and
want to see her, and he's to bring her there at once. Arter they've
started I go in and get to bed, and earthquakes wouldn't wake me, let
alone a knock at the door. D'ye see?"

"What good's that goin' to do?" enquired the astonished listener.

"Next day," said Barber, in thrilling tones, as he placed his forefinger
on the other's arm, "I refuse to believe her stor