"But I have good
reasons for what I am doing, and do not think that there will be any
mistake. Are you willing to enter my employment for a month?"

"Now, that all depends. I need the money, God knows, but I must
understand more about what is expected of me in connection with the
care of the old man."

"I can easily settle that. You are first of all to get a good place
for him to live, and, if possible, secure some dependable person to be
his companion who will take a special interest in his welfare. You are
to keep a detailed account of all expenses, and send the bill to me at
the end of the month. This address will find me," and he drew forth a
card and handed it to the young man.

There was nothing on the card to reveal to Jasper the identity of the
man who was taking such a remarkable interest in old David. It simply
told that the stranger's name was Robert Westcote, of 22 Princess
Street, Woldun.

"I think everything is satisfactory now," and Jasper lifted his eyes to
the stranger's face. "I am not likely to ask any questions, and as to
telling people who you are, there will be no trouble about that. In
fact, I am not intimate enough with any one here to wish to tell, even
if I desired to do so."

"That is good," Mr. Westcote replied. "I could not have chosen a
better person for my purpose."

"When do you want me to begin my work?" Jasper asked,

"At once, that is, if you can see your way to do so. But first of all,
I should like to visit this old man. I am somewhat curious about him
now that he is under my protection. How far is he from here?"

"About five miles, I should judge, though I have never been there
myself. He is at Mrs. Bean's, and she lives on a back road."

"Very well, then, we shall go just as soon as the car is ready, and I
should like for you to go with me."

It took the chauffeur some time to find out what was the matter with
the car, and when the damage was repaired, the three started down the
road at a fast rate. This was something new to Jasper, and he leaned
back in the comfortable seat and gave himself up to the enjoyment of
the moment. He need not worry any more for the present about his
living, as he had a cheque for one hundred and fifty dollars safely
stowed away in his pocket. As to the mystery connected with it all, he
did not feel inclined to bother his head. In fact, he was becoming
greatly interested, and was now quite anxious to see what the final
outc