turn to town, and then he had seen Jane and Silas
Finn together and they had talked, as far as he could remember, of the
Disestablishment of the Anglican Church and the elevating influence of
landscape painting on the human soul. Why had they come? It could not
be to offer their services during the election, for Silas Finn in
politics was a fanatical enemy. The visit stirred a lively curiosity.

They entered: Mr. Finn in his usual black with many-coloured tie and
diamond ring, looking more mournfully grave than ever; Jane wearing an
expression half of anxiety and half of defiance; Barney Bill, very
uncomfortable in his well-preserved best suit, very restless and
nervous. They gave the impression of a deputation coming to announce
the death of a near relative. Paul received them cordially. But why in
the world, thought he, were they all so solemn? He pushed forward
chairs.

"I got your postcard, Bill. Thanks so much for it."

Bill grunted and embraced his hard felt hat.

"I ought to have written to you," said Jane--"but---"

"She felt restrained by her duty towards me," said Mr. Finn. "I hope
you did not think it was discourteous on her part."

"My dear sir," Paul laughed, seating himself in his writing chair,
which he twisted away from the table, "Jane and I are too old friends
for that. In her heart I know she wishes me luck. And I hope you do
too, Mr. Finn," he added pleasantly--"although I know you're on the
other side."

"I'm afraid my principles will not allow me to wish you luck in this
election, Mr. Savelli."

"Well, well," said Paul. "It doesn't matter. If you vote against me
I'll not bear malice."

"I am not going to vote against you, Mr. Savelli," said Mr. Finn,
looking at him with melancholy eyes. "I am going to stand against you."

Paul sprang forward in his chair. Here was fantastic news indeed!
"Stand against me? You? You're the Radical candidate?"

"Yes."

Paul laughed boyishly. "Why, it's capital! I'm awfully glad."

"I was asked this morning," said Mr. Finn gravely. "I prayed God for
guidance. He answered, and I felt it my duty to come to you at once,
with our two friends."

Barney Bill cocked his head on one side. "I did my best to persuade him
not to, sonny."

"But why shouldn't he?" cried Paul courteously--though why he should
puzzled him exceedingly. "It's very good of you, Mr. Finn. I'm sure
your side," he went on, "could not have chosen a better man. You're
well known in the co