Now I dare tell you in turn, in strictest confidence of course--" "I am far too poor to afford the luxury of babbling." And the Major told him what we all know.
"I expected as much," said he drily.

"Now, I suppose that you wish me to exert myself in finding the man ?" "I do." "Were Mrs.Vavasour only concerned, I should say--Not I! Better that she should never set eyes on him again." "Better, indeed!" said he bitterly: "but it is I who must see him, if but for five minutes.

I must!" "Major Campbell's wish is a command.

Where have you searched for him ?" "At his address, at his publisher's, at the houses of various literary friends of his, and yet no trace." "Has he gone to the Continent ?" "Heaven knows! I have inquired at every passport office for news of any one answering his description; indeed, I have two detectives, I may tell you, at this moment, watching every possible place.

There is but one hope, if he be alive.