It was a delightful proof of the blessed elasticity of inconsistency in human lives, a proof also that there was in these two men more of good than of evil, that that same evening, when the lamp was lit, they discussed the problem that had been mooted in the afternoon with a fair amount of good temper.

As they sat elbowing the deal table, sheets of old newspapers under their inspection, Trenholme told his story more soberly.

He told it roughly, emphasising detail, slighting important matter, as men tell stories who see them too near to get the just proportion; but out of his words Bates had wit to glean the truth.

It seemed that his father had been a warmhearted man, with something superior in his mental qualities and acquirements.

Having made a moderate fortune, he had liberally educated his sons.