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[ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.] "THE CAULDERS OF ÁI:1. U CAXBOROUGH. B T FRED TV III S II A W, -Author of A l.ost Army." Tite Emperor's Eiitfiislmian," "The White Witch," Her ILIGKIRC-H," lloscow," «ic. CHAPTER 1. John Iloincrton, a young doctor in the Indian Medical Department, was already conl^'iaplr-vting a visit to the Old Country on furlough. an anonymous I'-tti-r hastened his mor-ments, and c.iusod him. in fact, "to take ih'? very next steamer leaving Bombay for England. The letter was dated from a country town in Surrey, and contained exceedingly dis- 'quicting information. It ran tllUs: Caxborough. May 19th, KG—. SIR,If you have any consideration for tho xvelfa-ce of your sister, Mrs. you had butler waste no ti.'no in coining to look after her. There is trouble brenving at the Manor. A Flt-,E-,D (). TIIY, FANIIII,Y. He-mirton's sister wag married in or near Caxborough. Her husband was a squire in the i:<»ifi{hi/Ourhood, a peculiar and elderly in- d; i d 1 1. of whom his young brother-in-law knew but little and understood less. He was rich. however, and had seemed to be devoted to his sister, and Homerton left England con- vinced" that the domestic establishment at the Manor House—in spite of the disparity of age between its master and )iii-for happiness, in so far as he was able to judge after a month spent in studying the situation on the spot. This was three years ago, and though he had consented to his sister's mar- triage with some misgivings llomerton had re- turned to India comforted by the belief that after all his doubts had bcc, unfounded. Upon receipt of the anonymous letter quoted above, however, his misgivings re- turned, intensified a hundred fold; and in spite of the fact that, like his neighbours, he had invariably boasted that unsigned letters should be treated with contempt and thrown unread into the wastepaper-bns'tet, this. the first he had ever received, was not only read, -but proved, on the instant, so convincing that he packed up his traps and came away, as ■aforesaid, by the first available opportunity. En route. Homerton considered how best he should act in order to make himself ae- quainted with the position of affairs, sup- posing the anonymous communication to have been made in good faith, without revealing to 1 the establishment at the i'U'.nor House his premature arrival in England. At the sumo time hfl was anxious to save his face" in case the letter should prove a hoax. Under the circumstances, therefore, he decided to take rooms at some small liot-el in Caxbor- ough, where he could live awhile incognito and g-tudy tho situation at his ease. The Caxborough Arms Hotel was almost ■empty who:: lionierton arrived and engaged his Toomu; iha eojTce-roon was little better than a wiidei':i'.?s.t at dinner-time; and since the waiter, per I taps long bereft of the opportunity of association with his fellow-creatures, seemed anxious to enter into friendly conver- sation wiiii that rara avis a visitor at the hotel, Homerton realised that here was pro- vided. ready to hand, an easy method of com- Kiencing his cautious investigations into car- ta in matters uppermost in his thoughts. The waiter remarked that it had been a •grand day, but seemed io be clouding over a bit. He fancied, however, that the rain would go up 'lie Arrow Valley, if it came. '• It gene- rally d; sir." he added. "We don't get rally d; sir." he added. aet much rain in Caxborough. 1 uuresnv a stranger to the town you'll find it a. bit sii-, as I (lid. I'm •almost a stranger myseiiV' muck to talk about, I daresay? ra- rnnrk'd Homerton, affably. Woll, I won't say that, sir." s'-viled the -v.-niter. In these 'ere country pluses every- j •one •esins to know all about their neighbor.'| and they find plenty of interest in tuii;n:g j about ooeh other." Hoi;.erfon considered e"IV favour- :V:r a plunge into the middle of things. How far away is the Manor House? he asked, dangling a bait, as it j were, before the waiter's nose. i "What, Mr. Caulder's? Scarcely a mile and a f.rf, sir; an easy walk." "Ah!" said Homerton, leaving the bait dangling. The waiter carried a plate to the sideboard, than he returned and jumped at the fly. acquainted with the squire, I daresay, sir? I iftteud to visit Mr. Caulder on business one of these days. Is he at home? Nilell, yes, he's at home, in a manner of speaking," said the waiter, mysteriously, and yet net at home." I r:in afraid I must ask for more light." laughed Homerton. v j "Well, you see, sir, it like this. Mr. Caulder's an elderly gentleman—close on sixty, I should say. Well, sir, when a gen- tlemar. c-f that age marries a young lady a good quarter of a. century younger, why, you know, sir—they're apt io find things don't go 60 pJtM.s-nti like as they expected." "Wlir.t, they've quarrelled, hare they?'' "Not so bad," said Charles, cryptieaily, c< and yet, worse, much worse." "Gl'd heavens, man, what do vou mean? Homerton blurted', startied into be- traying the agitation which he had hitherto .•successfully concealed by apparent absorption in the contents of his soup-plate. Drugs, sir," said Charles, delighted to (have aroused his companion to real interest in Iiis conversation. They do say the poor gentleman ain't happy, and has took to drugs—opium, and what-not—as an antidote- like to sorrer." And what about his wife? asked Homer- ton, endeavouring with some success to as- sume an appearance of indifference which he was very far from feeling. The waiter laughed, and tossed his head, as though the question reveal^j a vista in which comedy trod upon the heels of tragedy, Wel'l, I suppose you can't hardly blame a. young woman," lie said. Circumstances is against her. She hadn't ought to have mar- ried an old man what's a bookworm and sees I no society from morn till night; it ain't fair on her. Mind you, she's as straight as straight; there isn't a sov.l in this town what would dream of imputin' any harm to j Mrs. Caulder, beyond "—Charles paused and laughed again—" well, beyond believin' too much in that there rascal of a doctor," he ended, the smile dying from his face in an ex- pression cf virtuous indignation. Homerton ate his dinner, waiting for more light. They do say she's that fasemaied she can't tell wrong from right. the waiter pursued. She's fallin' in love, that's what it's called in plain English." "What, with the doctor you mentioned? asked Homerton, huskily. "That's it sir, with the doc-tor; an(I that's the trouble, for if anything was to happen to that there squire — wen, folks Wouldn't stop to think of her feelin's—not a j 'bit of it. There'd be trouble about them j drugs and the doctor what lets 'em be taken regular; folks would say the squire's been got rid of because there was someone as wanted the squire's missus- t a minute." Homerton gasped. Are you suggesting that Mr. Canlder is an opium- eater in consequence of domestic unhappi- ness; that the doctor who attends him is in love with the sick man's wife. and she with him, and that he— the doctor I mean—encou- rages the squire in his opium-eating in order j that when he is in his grave he may marry Mrs. Cauld-r? I shouldn't to put it so plain as that, sir," said Charles, somewhat alarmed at the ■obvious horror of his visitor. "Though that's about what it amounts to. Mind vou/'tis but hearsay })n repoatlu' you ,1 r,0 for to
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give me as the authority for the talk of the place. I'm repeatin' what I hear, no more." "Yes. yes, of course. But Mrs. Caulder, now, vou say she's innocent—is she aware that this doctor—what's his name, by the way?" Gil)son-.came into the town two years ago." Is Mrs. Caulder aware that this Gibson ia practically poisoning her husband in or(lel, Oh, it's the squire's own doing, sir; he took to the opium, they tell me, long before Gibson ever attended him. All I say IS the doctor don't insist on his knocking it off, Sol folks say he could, and ought." Do they tell Mrs. Caulder so?" "Oh Heaven knows, sir it ain't mybusiness. They tell me she was warned by someone—it was Gibson's own sister. Miss Yeronique, that lives with the doctor, and all she'd say was, I have confidence in the doctor, what knows more about these 'ere things than you and me; and he says it 'ud be more dangerous to leave off these drugs than to go on with 'EM I see, I see that may be perfectly true, I in fact, my friend, it is quite possible that the amiable Caxborough folk, in need of some- thing to talk about, have built up the whole of this precious story upon & foundation of I BAND Well, sir, I may tell you I only wish I could think so," said honest Charles. That there Mrs. Caulder's as sweet a lady as they're made, so everyone says as knows her, and it's a thousand pities she should be in- volved in such a scandal such as this 'ere's likely to turn out before long. If you go to visit the squire on business you'll see for yourself what kind of a state he's in—can t live a year, folks say, and, maybe, not half that time—and a fine healthy man he WAS, to", a while ago. before this 'e,-e trouble. he waiter's conversation appeared to have a disastrous effect upon Homerton s appetite; he mereh tovcd with the remainder of the dinner provided for him, neither did lie ask any further questions or invite further com- munications. Charles was much concerned. "I told the gentleman all about the squire's wife and the doctor, judgin' that he sort of wanted a bit of lie remarked presently in the kitchen. and he seemed quite took on. You wouldn't think a tl'ftlJgel"d care one way or the other." ILybe he's a newspaper man and means to make a story of it," suggested the cook. "You'll be able to claim your share if he does, Charlie." I'd a dashed sight rather he didn't," said Charles, somewhat alarmed by the sug- gestion. Then you'd better tell him your tale ain't for publication." the cook laughed. "Not as it could hurt if he did. for this 'ere new- comer must be the last man in Caxborough as didn'T know it." Ah A matter of common knowledge, that's what they call it in law," Charles as- sented, feeling much relieved. They can't run a man in for talking of what's a matter of general conversation in a town." Homerton sat long over his cup of coffce. An hour later he sighed, and rose and looked at his watch. It vius nine o'clock. He rang fcr the waiter. You seem to know all about Caxborough affairs." he said. Can you give me any in- formation as to the establishment at the tliev early or late?" Late, sir." replied Charles, with no licsi- tr.tion that is. there are lights in the house till near midnight every day of the week, and folks say they are late risers. The squire sits up for his wife, you see, who usually passes her evenings with Miss Gibson." To the surprise of Charles. Homerton uttered a savage imprecation under his breath. don't suggest, sir," he faltered. "in fact, I may say there isn't a soul in Cax- borough as would suggest, that there's any- thing wrong." course not." Homerton interrupted. I o:d not suppose there was. Moreover, what does it matter to me? I was about to whether it, is likely that I should see the iquire alone if I went to call upon him now." To-night, s;r? "Certainly. Why not? My business is URGENT "Well, sir, it's like this"—Charles hesi- tated. as though he feared to commit him- self—" you'd be pretty sure to find the squire in, and fairly certain to find him alone, too-" Charles paused. "Well?" Well. I couldn't say what condition you'd find the poor gentleman in. Them as* has seen him. evenings, do say that it's his worst time; sits over a little decanter of laudanum, some say. as another gentleman might sit over a bottle of port; others says it's tabloids he swallows—scores of 1 ft 4I heavens exclaimed Homerton; wliat a terrible state of affairs." it's a matter of common knowledge, sir, all I m t-elling you to-night," said the waiter, anxiously. If you was to think of lettiu' the story go any further, you'll remember that. I'm sure, and see I'm not held answer- able for any of the statements I've made to Vou." "Good heavens. mr,n, what do you mean? Do you suppose the matter is of any moment to me? It is not so pleasant a subject that I should enjoy talking about it to others, as YOU seem to do." "I was wonderin' whether you might be a WRITER of sorts." Charles faltered, "and would think of rnakin' a story of it." Homerton produced a sovereign. "Look here. my friend." he said. take my advice a-no (b not be so liberal wirh your informa- tion, in future, as to other people's affairs. Now. I do happen to be a writer of sorts, as you put It. and I should like this story of yours for myself. Promise me that you'll leave it alone, for the future, and discourage conversation among others upon the subject, and here is a sovereign on account of your share of the profits. If I find that you have done your best to favour my wishes, there may LIE another to follow." "He's A gentleman, the new visitor," said Charles, retailing this conversation presently below stairs. But whether he's a writer or not, that s AN^TLIET question looks to me more as if he was personally interested in the case." asked the cook, surprised. Why, because he's so anxious I should taink he isn't" replied Charles, with a wink, which WAS intended to -co,"vey the impression ot infinite sagacity. CHAPTER II. Homerton slept badly that night. Whether it was that he lay uneasily, as seme do, upon N strange oed, or whether the waiter'S story had unset him, he lay and tossed, wooing the rest which would not come to him. During the following morning lie walked out to the MANOR House. His sister's carriage stood at the door as he reached it. The coach- man rein-embei'ied him well and greeted him. "Gind to see you back, sir, Lnd lockin' hearty." Homerton thanked the man. All well lie Tom winced. "Oh. yes, sir. MODERATELY so. The 'orscs is fine and 'fit," he added with in- spiration. Homerton nodded and entered the house. The maid, A new one. informed him that her master was still in bed; Mrs. Caulder was preparing to drive cut. To the surprise of sent up his card TO the master of the house, if HE WILL see me." he said. "I will not aetr.IN Mrs. Caulder; vou need not announce me to your mistress." But the maid went straight to Mrs. Caulder ner story. Mentioning the matter after- wards B LOW stairs, the girl declared that UPON SEEING the card hdr mistress flushed with pleasure, but upon learning that the victor had asiied to SEE her husband and not her- self. tho smile changed into an expression of wonder or anxiety. That's what's called a bad conscience," she ended, and her peers in the kitchen district entirely agreed with her, excepting Mrs. Caulder's own maid Maggie. who remarked that if only ugly people would keep their mouths shut, there would not be so many lies told. It was. however, and had long been, the opinion of every servant at the Manor II'-use that Maggie was paid high wages for services which consisted principally OF a -ft for discreet silence.
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SELTLTCE Caulcier came running down stairs a moment later. She greeted her brother with frank delight-so it seemed to Homer- tc,n-a.,i(I he was glad to observe the fact. Of the two, h was undoubtedly the less at his ease. Hart the waiter and his anonymous uorresponde-nce merely reported the discovery of a mare's nest, or was Beatrice so much mistress of herself that she was able to assume the appearance of complete self-pos- session, though she could scarcely feel it under the circumstances? There was no lack of sincerity in her greeting. You'll stay here, of course. Jack-where are your things? The carriage shall go for j them at once." It seemed to Homerton that his sister awaited his reply with anxiety. "I think not, thanks. Don't let me keep you. Beatrice; your carriage is waiting, I see. Perhaps you have an engagement? We shall meet later. If I may see Stephen, I will keep him com- pany till you come baclk. I hear he has taken breakfast in bed. Nothing wrong with him, I hope?" Beatrice looked up quickly. This time Homerton was certain that for a moment her eves had contracted in an expression of eyes had contracted in an expression of anxiety. He has been somewhat out of sorts lately. Of course you shall see him. I will prepare him for your visit." Homerton found his brother-in-law much changed since he last saw him a few years ago. He looked aged and broken. Beatrice watched her brother anxiously as he ap- proached the bed upon which Stephen lav ] propped, and, though Homerton was well aware that lie was watched and did his best to betray no signs of anxiety, he was unable to conceal altogether the agitation which assailed him at first sight of the sick man. "Ah, said Stephen, after a cordial greet- ing, "you don't T.lnnk much of my personal appearance. I see. Yyell. I have been a bit be- low par. but there's nothing to be alarmed about—eh. Beatrice? I'm in the hands of a. doctor in whom I have the fullest confidence -a splendid fellow, Jack; one of the very best." I'm delighted to hear it." said Homerton. "Ward, is it, or Truman?" No, a new man, Edward Gibson—miles ahead of the old fellows you name you shall met him, and judge for yourself." Beatrice had settled herself in a comfort- able chair, and though dressed for driving out intended, apparently, to stay. "If I may keep Stephen company a while, don't stop in on my account. Beatrice. Homerton suggested. I'll stay to lunch, if you invite me. Probably you have an engage- ment? Beatrice looked troubled for an instant, but replied cordially that her brother must of course take every meal in her house. "I will go out if my stopping in is upon your con- science," she smiled; "but my engagements are very unimportant." She moved towards the door and turned ( the handle, but stood a moment as though f hesitating whether to add anything to her reiiia,Ics. She merely smiled and nodded. however, and left the room. She walked downstairs very slowly, apparently in deep THOUGHT, and stepped into her carriage with- out a word. The coachman needed no in- structions, as it seemed, for lie drove her straight to a house in the town—Dr. Gibson's residence. Komerton watched her out of the door. and listened for a moment or two un.il lie heard j the carriage drive away. He walked to the window and back. Now, Stephen." he "something is wrong; tell me, what i5:t?" Stephen Caulder's haggard face grew a shade more haggard. "Wrong?" he re- peated. With rny condition of health, do you mean? Of course. I could mean nothing else. I nm a medical man, remember; you look a DOZEN years older, man. Come. what is it? As rhe brother of Beatrice, I have ato know the truth." Stephen made a show of passing off the matter lightly. I'm getting old, Jack, that's all—I'm sixty now; perhaps vou forget that. You feliows of thirty No, no. You were fifty-six when I left and as good a man as any young fellow of I forty or so. Come, I <?>:pect you to tell me tho truth. If you don't, I may be compelled to take the bull by the horns." j -repnen laugnecf. "What is the precise meaning of that cryptic threat?" lie asked- The words, the voice, were free of all appear- ance of anxiety, but- the eyes of the invalid were troubled as he put the question. "I mean that I shall tell you very plainlv what I believe to be the matter with you." Caulder gazed at his brother-in-law with scarcely an attempt to conceal his perturba- tion of spirit. Look here. Jack." he said, I I know you to be a clever doctor, and I daresay tiiat you could frame a correct diag- nosis if I were to describe symptoms and so forth, but unless you have been listening to rumours Homerton flushed. Stop." he said. Why should not my sister have confided in me? it would surely be the most natural course, see- ing that I am not only her nearest relative. hut a medical man as well. Mind you, I don't say thatshe lias." I have sufficient confidence in my wife to a s'Ll be certain that she has not." It is true, she has not. though I think she might have done so with advantage." It was at my special request. Possibly, however, you have heard rumours from others. There is much jealousy in the town on account of Dr. Gibson's success in the place: he has interfered with vested interests, V(ILI oee. However, whether you have listened to tales, or whether you have formed your own opinion, matters "little. It is possible that you have somehow informed yourself of the actual circumstances of the case. You have been told that I use drugs." I have seen a good deal of opium-eatin" 9 and smoking in the East. 1 should known what was the matter with vou AT A glance, even though I had had no hint of the state of affairs." "Then you have been told?" I am informed that it is a matter of com- mon knowledge." Caulder uttered an angry exclamation. You can scarcely expect people to refrain From talking about their neighbours." Homer- ton added; "vou would do the same if the same tale were toid of some other man." "Tell me, did you hear of this before you came ? Yes." From whom? "From an anonymous communication." Which alarmed you so that you hastened your departure aid gave us no notice of your intended arrival." I did, perhaps, hasten my departure. One is naturally interested in the affairs of one's sister and her husband.' And this busybody, your anonymous cor- respondent, informed you that I had con- tracted the opium lial)it? "I did not say so perhaps something was left to the imagination." b Do you mean that you were told some- thing was wrong and that you had better come? You have guessed it exactly." And you have since learnt that it is a matter of common knowledge that I use drugs? Precisely." I suppose I ought to be extremely obliged 11 you for your interest in my affairs. By the way. have you informed me of the full extent of the trouble, according to the infor- mant who speaks of MY private concerns as a matter of common knowledge? Homerton paused before replying. At r.ny rate, your opium habit was the only thing I that mattered." he replIed. I There were, however, further interesting details as to my affairs? Nothing, as I say, that matters." "I see. Would it surprise you to know that I have been an opium-eater for years— that I had contracted the habit long before you last left for India—before my marriage? Not in the least. The habit had not then Not in the least. The habit had not then so victimised you that its ravages were obvi- ous to any man acquainted with the symp. toms. Probably you began with .small doses. but have gradually increased them—thai ;S the danger, of course, of the drug habit. If you are a wise man, you will as gradually break yourself of the practice before it is too late. I have no doubt your own doctor has given you the same advice." Caulder's white face flushed a little. I have full confidence in Dr. Gibson. ron can scarcely expect me to tolerate interference in kis treatment, even from a brother-in-law." "I oxi)ect g;iid Homerton. look- ing very stern but I shall certainly consult the man as to your case, qua brother-in-law. of course. The matter cannot be allowed to rest. As the brother of your wife. I shaH in- sist upon receiving the doctor's assurance that all is being done for you that can be done. It is useless to look furiously at me, Stephen. I will tell you very plainly what 1 you are doing—you are committing suicide." Caulder grew very pale he bit his lip. how- eve: as though to keep back the angrv words which he would have liked to utter, and said nothing. "It ia not fair to Beatrice," c-ontinueu Horn erton, "that the matter should be left as it is; she cannot be aware of your condition. Possibly the doctor, too. is inexperienced in the matter of opium-eating. He may at least be warned without a bleach of professional j etiquette." I wish to heaven you'd leave me and my affairs alone! Caulder suddenly burst out. Why couldn't you remain in India? Homerton did not reply, and for a few minutes there was silence. Caulder spoke first. "I'm afraid I spoke he said. I beg your pardon." Homerton smiled, and made a gesitire with hi hand. It is better that we should speak our minds." he replied. I am not satisfied with your condition. I suppose you cannot bear to contemplate any change in your habits yet the doctor-if lie is a capable man—should enforce his orders. I as-ume that lie, has in- sisted upon a gradual reduction in the quan- tity of opium that you are allowed to consume? Caulder FLUSHED. HE HAS PREACHED to me upon that text for a year at knst." YET he does not ENFORCE HIS ADVICE. You OUGHT to be CONSTANTLY WATCHED." Thank you. Life would NOT be worth LIV- i ng ortli living or not worth living, it is your duty and his to prolong it as far as pc.s- sible. You are, as I say. committing <Iow suicide. You should have a sick nurse. Has Dr. Gibson suggested it ? Tliajik fiea% eii. "lie is not siioji cl fool. Homerton turned upon his heel and walked to .E window, where he stood H.oking cut for some few minutes. | VT here is Beatric1 ? he r-ddenly asked, without turning round. If ho • d don," so. he might have observed that Caulder's face II twitched at the question. She has gone to see her friend," he re- lied-" Y eroniq ue" Yeronique—who is that ? "Veroaique Gibson." Is Dr. Gibson a married man ? Oh. no. this is his sister Beatrice is de- voted to her I see—poor Beatrice It is probable that in adding the two words at the end of his sentence, Homerton WR.S merely expressing some thought which passed through his mind but unfortunately HE mut- tered them audibly, and Stephen i, ard them. What do you MEAN ? he asked, SHARPLY. WHY POOR BEATRICE ? Homerton FLUSHED with ANNOYANCE. I 1. your pirdoii I did not intend you to hear the words." "Haying heard them, I must ask you for an EXPLANATION, HOWEVER." "I'm afraid I must REFUSE to give IT, I Stephen please don't ASK ni P. But I (to ask i-ou Well, then, if you must have it. I will ex- plain the trend of my thoughts. I am not favourably impressed with your account of the doctor. Mind you, I may be doing the man an injustice, and if so I shall be readv to acknowledge my mistake; and perhaps this circumstance has prejudiced me against his sister." How reasoii-,il)l,liow just exclaimed Stephen and therefore. I suppose, you are sorry for Beatrice, who has chosen the sister for her particular friend. Upon my word. Homerton, I should scarcely have believed it of you." Well, I daresay I am quite wrong I TRNGT that I am." You MAY take it from me that YERONIQUE is a suitable friend for my wife. DEES that satisfy you ? AS FOR THE DOCTOR, LIE BUT I hear his motor coming up the drixe. You shall see him for YOURSELF." Homerton walked to the window, and watched Gibson arrive and alight. "All I ask you is." Caulder. "for .er. or heaven's sake not to quarrel with the man or to tell him what you have told me. I shouldn't like to answer for the C-onse- 1 uencps." Hora»rton had no time to reply, for 1he door opened, and for the first TIME in their lives thjfc two men met face to face. < CHAPTER III. Homerton observed that Dr. Gibson, upon entering, seemed to sweep the room with his eves as though he sought something or some- one, and that when he did not find what he sought he frowned. Then he fixed his eyes upon Homerton. and bowed stiffly. Gibson was a good-looking man, with clean-shaven face and keen eyes. He was inclined to bald- ness about the temples, and his mouth sug- gested an obstinate and somewhat passionate temperament. His figure was spare and wiry, and he was of medium height. The invalid introduced the two men. "This is brother-in-law, John Homerton. doc- tor," he said. Some people think him like my wife. He is the Indian medico you have heard of." Charmed to know you, I'm sure," said Gibson. offering his hand. It appeared to Homerton. however, who possibly imagined it. that, the expression of his face scarcely coincided with the words used. I have been telling Homerton. said Caulder. speaking in a jocular manner, "what a bad patient I aiii--dic-obeii-eiit. and all that kind of thing In case he should be inclined to scold you for it, Gibson. I take this opportunity of making the humble con- fession that I take the whole of the blame upon myself." Gibson made a show of laughing. "Dr. Homerton, as an experienced practi- tioner. is well aware that the temperament of the patient is almost of greater importance than the skill of the doctor." he said. Homerton assented. Shall I have the pleasure of seeing you before you leave the house? he asked. Gibson's face clouded for a moment, as though with indignation, or perhaps anxiety. I shall only be here a few minutes." he said. Caulder looked from one man to the other with obvious agitation. You will remember what I said to you. John? Of course," said "Homerton. Dr. Gib- son will quite understand that I am anxious to consult him only in my capacity as a near relative." Homerton left the room as he spoke. Curse that man. what the deuce did he come for:" muttered Caulder. explosively, when the door had closed behind him. Don't blame me if the inquisitive fool makes himself unpleasant, Gibson. I never asked him to come." Did your i-,if-I ASK^D Gibson, fixing his keen eyes on the patient's face. Certainly not. lie appeared suddenly and quite unexpectedly. Y^asn't feeling fit. I sup- pose. and thought he would take a short- leave. Let us HO;*3 lie will soon return to his patients in India. I am Itlite afraid, from his remarks, that he means t-o interfere." "Not as doctor; that would'be most unpro- fessional, and COM rarv to all laws of medical eticiuette. He would not interfere, I feel sure. Cauhi-er. I should uot blame you in any way. <-ven if he d;O, but I do not think you need worry." Thanks. WQ shall see. My NERVES have deteriorated, as you know. I am suspicious and anxious, and afraid of everybody and everything. I daresay I imagine things." Don't worry, man. there's no ne-sd. Your brother-in-law is naturally anxious about you. You don'T look well, you know. HE must SEE thnt you overdone yourself with must SEE thnt you overdone yourself with opiates, and I suppose I shall catch it for al- lowing you to do so. You know very well! thnt I have a-sked you a hundred times to knock off fifty ]>er cent, of your morphia." Of course; f 4isIl not fail to tell him so. In fact, I have to-ld him so." TMA; ne nas rn at you already about VL has he? When did he, c. oiiie? Half-an-hour before ilou." Gibson flushed and laughed. He didn't take long to diagnose you I tell you what. Caulder, if a stranger coming in and seeing you can instantly and without warning dis- c-over that you're taking opiates, it must be obvious to you that you are overdoing it. What are you taking now, honestly, come- confess?" Caulder laughed. I suppose you've about as much hope of getting a correct answer from an opium-eater as to the amount he takes, as you would have if you asked a woman her age. You know how much you allow me; naturally. I would not presume, to disobey my doctor's orders." Seriously, you must be careful. Knock off a little each day. You cannot, of course, throw over a bad habit suddenly, but Homer- ton's remarks should warn you. I see vou every day, and. therefore, the change in you, for me. is not discernible but he is obviously anxious. I must insist upon obedience." Of course—of course, you are quite right. Homerton shall know that you insist. I can- not very well decrease my minimum to-day as my nerves have been upset by Homerton's sudden arrival, and so forth. To-morrow I will begin." You have made promises for so many to- morrows." This is the only really serious promise. From to-morrow I embark upon a new system -1 -,urii over a new leaf." How long will Homerton be in the plaee?" asked Gibson. Heaven knows; not longer than I can help. He is a good chap. mind you. Gibson. but I don't want him. There are times when one would rather be alone. I don't feel up to entertaining brothers-in-law. especially if they are going to worry me about my habits, You are worry enough to me you are always at me." "I am glad you admit that." "Of course I do. So is Beatrice. I don't want a third. Frighten him off. Gibson. Tell him it's most unprofessional and ungentle- manlv to interfere with you." He will not. I am not afraid of his in- terfering with me. and so long as he gives you the proper advice, which is to knock off soniq of your morphia, why should I object to that? But I don't want him to come nagging at me, and perhaps watching me, or setting a watd}." "What can I do? You are master of the house, not 1. If he lives in the house. I sup- pose hie presence pre-supposes an invitation from yourself or your wife. What can I do Well. I shall tell him I am entirely satis- fied with my doctor, and I won't be nagged. Go and see him, Gibson, and frighten him away; he's waiting for you. I shall be get- ting up presently." Gibson took his leave and went down to the study, where he expected to find Homerton waiting for him. He was pale and anxious- looking, as though he did not look forward with much pleasure to the interview before him. He had scarcely closed the door of Caulder's bedroom behind him when the patjent was out of bed and rummaging in a drawer of the toilet-table. He produced a box of pills or tabloids and swallowed three of them. "Good heavens he muttered, "I wanted them badly." Meanwhile Dr. Gibson opened the door of the study. Homerton was alone there, and rose to meet him. The two men scanned one another something after the fashion of two wrestlers manoeuvring for the grip. "You can spare me a minute or two?" asK-d Homerton, I am anxious to consult you as to my brother." Gibson took the bull by the horns. "With pleasure. I am busy, there is an epidemic of measles in the town, but I shall make it con- venient to have a chat with you. Your brother-in-law has contracted the opium habit. I need scarcely ask you whether you have noticed the fact." It is sufficiently obvious. I have seen A good deal of opium-poisoning in the Eat, therefore I was the more easily able to detect the nature of the mischief at first sight. He is pretty bad; it has gone rather far." If you know your brother-in-law well, you must be aware that he is a difficult man to deal with. He refuses to obey orders, or, which is worse, pretends to obey them while doing nothing of the kind. I have. of course. threatened him with all the terrors of the last stages of the opium-mania, but he laughs at fear. I have used many arguments, every argument, I think I might say. that can be brought forward to combat the dreadful malady he suffers from." "Tliere is. however, an argument which, I think, might be used with advantage." said Homertom interrupting; "one which, so far as I can gather, has not yet been put before him. Mv sister is. I believe, fond of her hus- band as fond, that is. as a woman of twenty- five can reasonably be expected to be as the wife of an elderly man of about sixty. I think there can be little doubt upon that point." Homerton paused a moment, glancing keenly at his companion, as though expect- INS confirmation of his opinion. Gibson FLNT-Iicd. and his eyes lur an in- That is a matter upon which I should scarcely presume to express aa opinion." he said. let us take it for granted that it is so. My sister, of course, is the person most interested, after the patient himself, in the state of Mr. Caulder's health; it is surely due to her. therefore, not only that you should do your utmost to comp,el her husband to put an end to a habit which will probably develop into sheer suicide Suicide murmured Gibson. That is astrong expression.' It is the simfple truth, as. of course, you are well aware. The process of self-killing may occupy a LONGER or a shorter period, but it must end in death unless a check is put to it. Well, as I say, not only must you and I and all concerned do our best to induce him to curb his fatal drug habit for his own sake, but it must be pointed out to him that it is due to his wife no less than to himself that his life should be prolonged. The selfishness of his conduct should L>e impressed upon him. It does not seem to have occurred to the patient that consideration is due to his wife, who is miserable on his account." Personal considerations of that kind are scarcely within the province of a medical at- tendant," said Gibson, playing restlessly with his watch-chain. Such advice would come better from yourself." Yes well. I shall find an opportunity to press the point. If I succeed in inducing him to see the matter in this light. I shall perhaps be able to persuade him to allow a sick-nurse to attend him for a while at least." Gibson laughed. "I shall be surprised if your influence should carry you quite as far as that. Mr. Caulder has a horror of the very idea of interference. He cannot bear to think that he is watched." Naturally. A nurse, or any person in con- stant attendance, would prevent his indul- gence in the craving for drugs which is be- coming so fatal. I do not suppose that at first I shall enjoy any greater success than your- self in to the nurse. I mean. But possibly the argument that his wife IR. suffering through anxiety cn his account may tell with him. Have you any idea how long he has been in the habit of taking opiates?" Since before his marriage. I believe. He has suffered from neuralgia for seveA.1 years, The liabit has developed greatly, however, during the last year. Nothing that I have been able to say has been of any avail to stem the development." I see that we are entirely agreed as to the imperative necessity of stopping the evil. I trust you will not consider me guilty of tin- professional conduct in seeking this interview with you. My interference is qua brother-in- law. of course; that I happen to be a medical man is a mere accident. Doubtless you. as medical attendant, are as anxious to effect A cure as 1. who am Caulder's nearest relative. You are acquainted, of course, with Mrs. Caulder? Gibson glanced quickly in Homerton's face; to his intense annoyance he became suddenly conscious that his own face had flushed scarlet. My sister. Miss Gibson, is on terms of in- timacy with Mrs. Caulder." he said they are almost inseparable friends. Of course. I am acquainted with your sister. We are glad to welcome her constantly at out house we are near neighbours." "That is very charming. I understood thab my sister had driven out to visit your sister. I think I must not keep you longer from your patients, Dr. Gibson. Thank you for so kindly according ME an interview. I look forward to your assistance in inducing the patient to allow himself to 00 profession- ally nursed for a while.' Of course. Perhaps you will kindly take the initiative in the matter. I may warn you that he will not receive the suggestion very kindly, he is irritable at present." Gibson laughed. He was pleased to think the inter- view was over. "Naturally. I shall take my courage in both hands. If he refuses to have a nurse I intend to act in that capacity myself—as fa.r as I am allowed." "I do not envy you the position. Mr. Caulder is-" Dr. Gibson did not finish his sentence, for at this moment the door opened, and Mrs. C&ulder entered with A companion. -u (To BE COXTLKUED). u,-