Here was a marriage which was the strongest protection in the promotion of his own plan, and he was asked to annul it.

"Very good," thought Mr Brandon, "very good." And he smiled again.

But he was an old-fashioned gentleman, and not used to refuse requests made to him by ladies.

"I will look into it, madam," said he.

"I will look into it, and see what can be done." "Something must be done," said the old lady; "and the right thing too.
How long do you intend to stay here ?" "I thought of spending the night, madam, as my horse and myself are scarcely in condition to continue our journey to-day." "Stay as long as you like," said Mrs Keswick.