CHAPTER THIRTY.
NEW LIGHTS ON OLD QUESTIONS.
Fairbairn was startled next morning while engaged over his toilet by a sudden visit from the captain.
What could be wrong to bring him there at this hour, with a face full of anxiety and a voice full of concern, as he inquired, "Will you do me a favour, old man ?" Fairbairn knew his friend had been in trouble for some time past, and was sore beset on many hands.

He had not attempted to intrude into his secrets or to volunteer any aid.

For he knew Riddell would ask him if he wanted it.

In proof of which here he was.
"Of course, I will," replied he, "if I can." "Do you happen to have a pot of jam you could lend me ?" Fairbairn fairly staggered at this unexpected request.

He had imagined he was to be asked at the very least to accompany his friend on some matter of moment to the doctor's study, or to share some tremendous secret affecting the honour of Willoughby.