May I hope, my dear Gammon, to be forgiven?
I apologize most humbly--believe me." "Oh, that's all right," replied the other with a grin; "I hope I didn't hurt you ?" "My dear fellow, it would have served me right.

But no--just a few trifling bruises.

By the by, our friend has departed." "Dead--yes!" "Do you know, Gammon, I think we ought to have a quiet talk.

You and I have common interests in this matter.

There will be an inquest, you know, and the fact is I think"-- he spoke very confidentially--"it might be as well for us both if we came to some sort of mutual understanding.
As things have turned out we are victims of circumstances.