XLIV.

PRELIMINARY BROTHERHOOD.

When I returned to Arden, I gave Walkirk an outline of what had
occurred, but I did not go into details, having no desire that the
preposterous idea which had gotten into the head of Miss Laniston should
enter that of my under-study. Walkirk was not in good spirits.

"I had hoped something," he said, "from your interview with Mother
Anastasia, though perhaps not exactly in the line of a brotherhood. I
thought if she came to thoroughly understand your earnestness in the
matter, she might use her influence with Miss Raynor, which at some time
or other, or in some way or other, might result to your advantage, and
that of the young lady. I had and still have great belief in the
capabilities of Mother Anastasia, but now I am forced to believe, very
much against my will, that there is no hope ahead. With Mother Anastasia
decidedly against us, the fight is lost."

"Us," I repeated.

"My dear sir," said he, "I am with you, soul and body."

Without a word I took him by the hand, and pressed it warmly.

"What do you think of continuing your recitals of travel?" Walkirk said
to me later in the day. "I should think they would interest you, and I
know they were vastly interesting to me. You must have a great deal more
to tell."

"I have," I answered, "but I shall not tell it now. Instead of talking
about travels, I have determined to travel. At present it is awkward for
me to remain here. It is impossible for me to feel independent, and able
to do what I please, and know that there are persons in the village who
do not wish to meet me, and with whom it would be embarrassing and
perhaps unpleasant to meet. I know I must meet them some time or other,
unless they shut themselves up, or I shut myself up. That sort of thing
I cannot endure, and I shall go to Turkey and Egypt. Those countries I
have not visited. If it suits you, I shall take you with me, and I shall
also take a stenographer, to whom I shall dictate, on the spot, the
materials for my book."

"Do you mean," asked Walkirk, "that you will dispense altogether with
that preparatory narration to me of what you intend afterwards to put
into your book? I consider that a capital plan, and I think you found it
of advantage."

"That is true," I answered; "the plan worked admirably. I did not
propose to work in that way again, but I will do it. Every night I will
tell you what I have done, and what I think about things, and the next
mo