I applaud your prudence: it is, however, needless.

Your history, your actions, nay, your very thoughts are better known to me than to your spiritual adviser." "Make good your assertions," cried Trenchard, furiously, "or----" "To the proof," interrupted the stranger, calmly.

"You are the son of Sir Montacute Trenchard, of Ashton-Hall, near Manchester.

Sir Montacute had three children--two daughters and yourself.

The eldest, Constance, was lost, by the carelessness of a servant, during her infancy, and has never since been heard of: the youngest, Aliva, is the present Lady Trafford.