the stranger. "I was not aware the General had
any family."

"I am illegitimate, sir," replied Francis, with a flush.

The other bowed with gravity. It was a respectful bow, as of a man
silently apologising to his equal; and Francis felt relieved and
comforted, he scarce knew why. The society of this person did him good;
he seemed to touch firm ground; a strong feeling of respect grew up in
his bosom, and mechanically he removed his wideawake as though in the
presence of a superior.

"I perceive," said the stranger, "that your adventures have not at all
been peaceful. Your collar is torn, your face is scratched, you have a
cut upon your temple; you will, perhaps, pardon my curiosity when I ask
you to explain how you come by these injuries, and how you happen to
have stolen property to an enormous value in your pocket."

"I must differ from you!" returned Francis hotly. "I possess no stolen
property. And if you refer to the diamond, it was given to me not an
hour ago by Miss Vandeleur in the Rue Lepic."

"By Miss Vandeleur in the Rue Lepic!" repeated the other. "You interest
me more than you suppose. Pray continue."

"Heavens!" cried Francis.

His memory had made a sudden bound. He had seen Mr. Vandeleur take an
article from the breast of his drugged visitor, and that article, he was
now persuaded, was a morocco case.

"You have a light?" inquired the stranger.

"Listen," replied Francis. "I know not who you are, but I believe you to
be worthy of confidence and helpful; I find myself in strange waters; I
must have counsel and support, and since you invite me I shall tell you
all."

And he briefly recounted his experience since the day when he was
summoned from the bank by his lawyer.

"Yours is indeed a remarkable history," said the stranger, after the
young man had made an end of his narrative; "and your position is full
of difficulty and peril. Many would counsel you to seek out your father,
and give the diamond to him; but I have other views.--Waiter!" he cried.

The waiter drew near.

"Will you ask the manager to speak with me a moment?" said he; and
Francis observed once more, both in his tone and manner, the evidence of
a habit of command.

The waiter withdrew, and returned in a moment with the manager, who
bowed with obsequious respect.

"What," said he, "can I do to serve you?"

"Have the goodness," replied the stranger, indicating Francis, "to tell
this gentleman my name."

"You have the h