py home, just
when Gladys and James have arrived, Marshland" he added.

"Yes sir" said the servant coming forward.

"I shall have to leave home early tomorrow" said Mr. Winston "how will
you get on with out me?"

"Oh sir, I think we shall get on all right" responded Marshland "I'll
keep an eye on the young ladies and Mr. Palsey will cheer them up I
know."

"I dont know that" said Mr. Winston "he seems a very dull gentleman."

"Do he really sir" said Marshland "well I'm sure I'm very sad."

"But do you think you can mannage without me? I shall not be away more
than three days" asked Mr. Winston.

"Oh yes sir, dont you fret" replied Marshland and now is there anything
I can do for you?"

"No nothing thank you" said Mr. Winston "but when the young ladies and
Mr. Palsey come in, send Miss Helen to me."

"Yes sir" said Marshland quitting the room.

Barely had the door closed on Marshlands comely figure, when it opened
again and Cyril Sheene came bounding in.

"Hullo Winston" he cried "I heard you had some friends down, so I
thought I'd just drop in and be introduced."

"They're all out at present" said Mr. Winston with a vain attempt at a
smile, "sit down wont you they'll be in soon."

Cyril flung himself down in an arm chair and then glanced at Mr.
Winston.

"Why Winston old fellow" he cried, you dont look yourself, is anything
up?"

"Oh nothing said Mr. Winston tapping the table nervously."

"Now look here" said Cyril "you cant get round me like that, I know
something is wrong, you might as well tell me."

"Very well Cyril I'll tell you" said Mr. Winston and he handed the
letter to Cyril, who read it carefully through. As he did so a marked
change came over his face, a change from a pleasant faced young man to
that of a stern, cold, yet pleased person.

"So you're off tomorrow?" remarked he as he folded the paper.

"Yes I suppose so" said Mr. Winston.

"How you must feel leaving the girls all alone" said Cyril.

"I do" said Mr. Winston, "but I know Marshland will take good care of
them and you'll look in wont you?"

"Well I was about to suggest going up with you" said Cyril "I know a few
friends in Warwick and you'd be all the better for a companion."

"It is kind of you Cyril" said Mr. Winston "but I'd rather you stopped
to take care of Helen."

"Oh Helen will be all right with Marshland and Mr. Palsey in the house"
said Cyril "I think you need me more."

"I suppose I do" replied Mr. Winst