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Mollins in great confusion; "you were always good, I—I shall be guided by you entirely—only—only promise—you know what I mean—you"—
"I do know what you mean," said Mrs Mason, "and I shall promise to be your friend if I find that you deserve it." Then, without taking any notice of the exclamations of surprise and astonishment that were bursting from every tongue, she invited Mr Mollins to a private conference in the adjoining room. In about half an hour they returned, and Mr Mollins, addressing himself to Mr Stewart, said, that as Mrs Mason had convinced him of the propriety of signing the papers he had shewed him, he was now willing to do it immediately. The papers were signed and witnessed in solemn silence: Mr Flinders biting his lip all the while; not knowing what to make of the sudden turn which the appearance of Mrs Mason had given to the business. He began to entertain some unfavourable sus-
