You see, your case is one of exceptional interest--it will become a textbook case, as Miss Bellingham has prophesied; and, since it lies within my specialty, it will be necessary for me, in any case, to follow it in the closest detail.

Now, it would be much more satisfactory to me to study it from within than from without, to say nothing of the credit which would accrue to me if I should be able to conduct it to a successful issue.

I am therefore going to ask you to put your case in my hands and let me see what can be done with it.

I know this is an unusual course for a professional man to take, but I think it is not improper under the circumstances." Mr.Bellingham pondered in silence for a few moments, and then, after a glance at his daughter, began rather hesitatingly: "It is exceedingly generous of you, Doctor Thorndyke--" "Pardon me," interrupted Thorndyke, "it is not.

My motives, as I have explained, are purely egoistic." Mr.Bellingham laughed uneasily and again glanced at his daughter, who, however, pursued her occupation of peeling a pear with calm deliberation and without lifting her eyes.