Glad to see you," greeted Mr.Lamont, as he swung around on his chair.

"Take a seat.

What can I do for you ?" As the question was asked abruptly, the answer came in like manner.
"I want to know what you know about Carlia Duke." Mr.Lamont reddened, but he soon regained his self-possession.
"What do you mean!" he asked.
"You have heard of her disappearance ?" "Yes; I was very sorry to hear of it." "It seems her father has exhausted every known means of finding her, and I thought you might, at least, give him a clew." "I should be most happy to do so, if I could; but I assure you I haven't the least idea where she has gone.

I am indeed sorry, as I expressed to her father the other day." "You were with her a good deal." "Well, not a good deal, Mr.Trent--just a little," he smilingly corrected.

"I will admit I'd liked to have seen more of her, but I soon learned that I had not the ghost of a chance with you in the field." "You are making fun, Mr.Lamont." "Not at all, my good fellow.