reers in England, and there's another point to be
considered: you might wish to marry. That, of course, is out of the
question now."

"It will, no doubt, remain so," Blake replied with the colour creeping
into his set face.

"Then you have given up all idea of clearing yourself? The thing may
be easier than you imagine if properly handled." Clarke paused and
added significantly: "In fact I could show you a way in which the
matter could be straightened out without causing serious trouble to
anybody concerned; that is, if you are disposed to take me into your
confidence."

Blake got up, filled with anger and uneasiness. He had no great faith
in Harding's scheme; his life as a needy adventurer had its trials, and
it had been cunningly hinted that he could change it when he liked, but
he had no intention of doing so. This was an old resolve, but it was
disconcerting to feel that an unscrupulous fellow was anxious to meddle
with his affairs, for Clarke had obviously implied the possibility of
putting some pressure upon Colonel Challoner. Blake shrank from the
suggestion. It was not to be thought of.

"I have nothing more to say on the subject," he answered sternly. "It
must be dropped."

Somewhat to his surprise, Clarke acquiesced good-humouredly, after a
keen glance at him.

"As you wish," he said. "However, that needn't prevent my giving you
the directions I promised, particularly as it may help me to earn fifty
dollars. I believe Benson spent some time with you this morning; are
you taking him?"

Blake started. He wondered how the man could have guessed, but he
admitted that Benson was going.

"You may find him a drag, but that's your affair," said Clarke in a
tone of indifference. "Now sit down and make a careful note of what I
tell you."

Believing that the information might be of service, Blake did as he was
told, and then took his leave. When he had gone, Clarke sat still for
a time with a curious smile. Blake had firmly declined to be
influenced by his hints, but Clarke had half expected this, and what he
had learned about the young man's character cleared the ground.

CHAPTER X

BENSON GIVES TROUBLE

It was nearly dark when Blake and Harding led two packhorses through a
thin spruce wood, with Benson lagging a short distance behind. They
had spent some time crossing a wide stretch of rolling country, dotted
with clumps of poplar and birch, which was still sparsely inhabited,
and