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150 "Engaged? To Mr. Cumberland?" It was piteous to see the young man's face. "But he's in Oban."

"I don't know how you know he is in Oban. Nor do I see why his being in Oban should make any difference to the fact of our engagement."

"But—why did you buy my picture?"

"My good sir, I have never bought any picture of yours."

"Gill said it was you."

"You seem to be favoured with some curious friends. I have not the honour of Mr. Gill's acquaintance. Had I purchased your picture, I do not see how the purchase would have warranted your peculiar behaviour. As a matter of fact, I have done nothing of the kind."

Mr. Wilmot slipped his arm through Mr. Major's.

"Come, my friend, I think you and I had better take a stroll together. You seem to have let us in for a very nice thing!"

IV.

"Gill!" Mr. Major knocked at the door again. "Gill!" There was still no answer. He turned the handle. The door was open. Mr. Major entered. The lamp was still unlighted, but he could see that Mr. Gill was seated at the table. "Gill!" Mr. Gill continued silent Mr. Major went and touched him on the shoulder. "Gill!"

He started back. Mr. Gill was dead!

"Starvation—that's what it is."