e that the situation is one that had better not be
discussed between us," George rejoined, with marked coldness.
"Besides, my opinion won't count for much in face of the very
satisfactory financial results you have secured. I'm sorry for what
has happened, on Muriel's account."

He turned and went out; and met Ethel on reaching West's house.

"I must try to arrange for an interview with Sylvia and Captain Bland,"
he told her. "There are matters that should be explained to them."

"Won't it be painful?"

"That can't be allowed to count."

"After all," said Ethel thoughtfully, "it's no doubt the proper course."

A week later he visited Mrs. Kettering's, and was shown into a room
where Sylvia awaited him alone. After the first glance at him, she
turned her eyes away.

"George," she said, "I'm afraid I've behaved badly. Can you forgive
me?"

"I think so," he answered with a forced smile. "Anyway, I'll try, and
I'd like you to be happy. But it wouldn't be flattering if I pretended
that I wasn't hurt."

"Ah," she exclaimed, "you were always so generous!"

He stood silent a moment or two looking at her.

She had cunningly tricked him and killed his love; but she was very
attractive with her pretty, helpless air. He knew this was false, but
there was no profit in bitterness; he would not cause her pain.

"It's more to the purpose that I'm hard, which is fortunate in several
ways. But I came to talk about the farm; that is why I suggested that
Captain Bland should be present."

"The farm?" Sylvia regarded him with a trace of mockery. "That you
should think of it is so characteristic of you!"

George smiled.

"I can't help my matter-of-fact nature, and I've found it serviceable.
Anyway, the farm must be thought of." He laid a hand gently on her
shoulder. "Sylvia, I'm told that Bland isn't rich. If he loves you,
take him fully into your confidence."

She blushed, which he had scarcely expected.

"I have done so--at least, I allowed Herbert to explain--there is
nothing hidden." Then her tone changed to one of light raillery. "You
were always an extremist, George; you can't hit the happy medium. Once
you believed I was everything that was most admirable, and now--"

"I think you have done right and wisely in letting Bland know how
things stand. It was only my interest in your future that warranted
what I said."

"Well," she replied, "we will go up and talk to him; he's waiting. You
can give