Now, my opinion is that when he secretly married a girl who was much below him in station, he went off to America, intending to put his principles in practice.

He evidently wanted his son to owe nothing to his birth; and though he certainly made ample and generous provision for him, and gave him a fine start, he wanted him to make his own life and fortune.

That accounts for Mr.Gavin Smeaton's bringing-up.

But now as regards the secret.

Michael Carstairs was evidently a rolling stone who came up against some queer characters--Gilverthwaite was one, Phillips--whoever he may have been--another.