CHAPTER XXV.
CONRAD TAKES A BOLD STEP "I hope, Mrs.Hamilton, you don't suspect me of frequenting gambling houses ?" said Ben, after his enemy had left the room.
"No," answered Mrs.Hamilton promptly.

"I think I know you too well for that." "I did go on Tuesday evening, I admit," continued Ben.

"I saw that Mrs.Hill did not believe it, but it's true.

I wish I hadn't lost the letter inviting me there.

You might think I had invented the story." "But I don't, Ben; and, for the best of all reasons, because I found the note on the carpet, and have it in my possession now." "Have you ?" exclaimed Ben gladly.
"Here it is," said the lady, as she produced the note from the desk before her.