much, but I guess it'll do old Davenport good."

Holden, according to his custom, seemed indisposed to enter into
conversation with those around him, or to accept the civilities
tendered, and started off as soon as possible, upon his solitary way.
As he emerged from the crowd, he caught sight of the advancing figures
of Faith and of her companions, who had more leisurely approached, and
stopped to greet them. From them he seemed to receive with pleasure
the congratulations showered upon him, though he disclaimed all merit
for himself.

"Be the praise," he said, devoutly, "given to Him who, according to
the purpose of his own will, maketh and destroyeth. The insensible
block of ice and I were only instruments in His hands." He turned
away, and walking rapidly was soon out of sight.

Constable Basset, who was present, had just sense enough to understand
that this was no occasion for his interference, and although he
followed the retreating figure of the Solitary with longing eyes,
while his hands clutched at the writ, ventured on no attempt to
exercise his authority.




CHAPTER XXIV.

We talk of love and pleasure--but 'tis all
A tale of falsehood. Life's made up of gloom:
The fairest scenes are clad in ruin's pall,