on settling this horrible matter at once for all in the drastic way you propose. But to do so now would be a cruel wrong to Jean.”

He waited a moment, then, speaking very solemnly, he went on:

“Most people are convinced of the truth of that evil old proverb, ‘There’s no smoke without fire.’ The fact that your wife’s body had been exhumed, and certain portions of that poor body submitted to certain tests by a government expert, would never be forgotten.”

“I suppose that’s true,” said Garlett slowly, and Dr. Maclean pursued his advantage.

He put his hand on the younger man’s shoulder, “For God’s sake, let the matter rest. As things are now I regard it as practically certain that this painful business will never be known beyond just our four selves.”

88“Our four selves?” repeated Harry Garlett uncertainly.

88

“Of course, man! Myself, my wife, Jean and you.”

There was a long pause, and Dr. Maclean, with intense relief, believed that he had gained his point. But suddenly Harry Garlett exclaimed:

“It’s no use, Maclean! I can’t see it as you do. I shall go to the Home Office to-morrow morning.”

“I suppose you agree that Jean has a right to be consulted before you take a step that may cloud all her future life?”

“I know Jean will agree with me,” said Harry Garlett obstinately.

“Give her a chance of hearing the other side, man. Damn it all! You do owe me something——”

He turned toward the door. “I’ll telephone my wife to bring the girl up to-night.” Without waiting for the other’s assent he left the room.

Then, for he was an upright man, and not given to deceiving himself, Dr. Maclean stayed his steps for a moment on the big, empty hotel landing.

He was asking himself whether, after all, Harry Garlett might not be taking the right course in settling this painful, degrading question once for all. He had felt, in spite of the courtesy, nay, the kindness, with which he had been treated at the Home Office, that an uncomfortable suspicion did still linger in the minds of the two men with whom he had had his difficult interview. Deep in his heart he was well aware that it was the fortunate accident 

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