te of that man's insinuations, I firmly believe that no
one is aware of the circumstance except Miss Macy and myself."

"I had no idea of intimating that anything had happened that was not
highly honorable and creditable to you and the young lady," began
Richardson hurriedly.

"I don't know that it was necessary for you to have any ideas on the
subject at all," said Mainwaring, sternly; "nor that, having been shown
how you have insulted this gentleman and myself, you need trouble us an
instant longer with your company. You need not come back. I will manage
my other affairs myself."

"Very well, Mr. Mainwaring--but--you may be sure that I shall certainly
take the first opportunity to explain myself to Sir Robert," returned
Richardson as, with an attempt at dignity, he strode away.

There was an interval of silence.

"Don't be too hard upon a fellow, Bradley," said Mainwaring as Bradley
remained dark and motionless in the shadow. "It is a poor return I'm
making you for your kindness, but I swear I never thought of anything
like--like--this."

"Nor did I," said Bradley, bitterly.

"I know it, and that's what makes it so infernally bad for me. Forgive
me, won't you? Think of me, old fellow, as the wretchedest ass you ever
met, but not such a cad as this would make me!" As Mainwaring stepped
out from the moonlight towards him with extended hand, Bradley grasped
it warmly.

"Thanks--there--thanks, old fellow! And, Bradley--I say--don't
say anything to your wife, for I don't think she knows it. And,
Bradley--look here--I didn't like to be anything but plain before that
fellow; but I don't mind telling YOU, now that it's all over, that I
really think Louise--Miss Macy--didn't altogether understand me either."

With another shake of the hand they separated for the night. For a long
time after Mainwaring had gone, Bradley remained gazing thoughtfully
into the Great Canyon. He thought of the time when he had first come
there, full of life and enthusiasm, making an ideal world of his pure
and wholesome eyrie on the ledge. What else he thought will, probably,
never be known until the misunderstanding of honorable and chivalrous
men by a charming and illogical sex shall incite the audacious pen of
some more daring romancer.

When he returned to the house, he said kindly to his wife, "I have been
thinking to-day about your hotel scheme, and I shall write to Sacramento
to-night to accept that capitalist's offer."

C