time--and committed to some one to carry from town to town, and post,
_having previously filled in dates_ to make them _correspond_ with the
exact period of posting them.'

The attorney's searching gaze was fixed on the captain, as he said this,
with all the significance consistent with civility; but he could not
observe the slightest indication of change. I dare say the captain felt
his gaze upon him, and he undoubtedly heard his emphasis, but he plainly
did not take either to himself.

'Indeed! that is very odd,' said Captain Lake.

'Very odd;' echoed the attorney.

It struck Mr. Larkin that his gallant friend was a little overacting, and
showing perhaps less interest in the discovery than was strictly natural.

'But how can you show it?' said Lake with a slight yawn. 'Wylder _is_
such a fellow. I don't the least pretend to understand him. It may be a
freak of his.'

'I don't think, Captain Lake, that is exactly a possible solution here. I
don't think, Sir, he would write two letters, one referring back to the
other, at the same time, and post and date the latter more than a week
_before_ the other.'

'Oh!' said Lake, quietly, for the first time exhibiting a slight change
of countenance, and looking peevish and excited; yes, that certainly does
look very oddly.'