as though to speak, then bit off the words. "Yes, I'm out of it," he said shortly. "But you're not out of it--if you find the pirate's treasure." "Wait until I find it--at present, I'm only an 'also ran.'" "Who had the field, however, until withdrawn," said Macloud. "Maybe!" Croyden laughed. "But things have changed with me, Macloud; I've had time for thought and meditation. I'm not sure I should go back to Northumberland, even if the Parmenter jewels are real. Had I stayed there I suppose I should have taken my chance with the rest, but I'm becoming doubtful, recently, of giving such hostages to fortune. It's all right for a woman to marry a rich man, but it is a totally different proposition for a poor man to marry a rich woman. Even with the Parmenter treasure, I'd be poor in comparison with Elaine Cavendish and her millions--and I'm afraid the sweet bells would soon be jangling out of tune.""Would you condemn the girl to spinsterhood, because there are few men in Northumberland, or elsewhere, who can match her in wealth?" "Not at all! I mean, only, that the man should be able to support her according to her condition in life.--In other words, pay all the bills, without drawing on her fortune." "Those views will never make you the leader of a popular propaganda!" said Macloud, with an amused smile. "In fact, you're alone in the woods." "Possibly! But the views are not irrevocable--I may change, you know. In the meantime, let us go down to Fleet Street and interview Casey. And then, if you're good, I'll take you to call on Miss Carrington." "The Symphony in Blue!" exclaimed Macloud. "Come along, man, come along!" GREENBERRY POINT There was no trouble with Casey--he had been mighty glad to take them. And, at about noon of the following day, they drew in to the ancient capital, having made a quick and easy run from Hampton. It was clear, bright October weather, when late summer seems to linger for very joy of staying, and all nature is in accord. The State House, where Washington resigned his
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