“Lawyers are confidential agents,” said Mr. Quest quietly. “Of course they are. Of course, and it is their business to hold their tongues. I may rely upon your discretion, may I not?” “Certainly,” said Mr. Quest. “Well, the matter is this: Mr. Edward Cossey is engaged to Miss de la Molle. He has just been here to obtain my consent, which, of course, I have not withheld, as I know nothing against the young man—nothing at all. The only stipulation that he made is, as I think, a reasonable one under the circumstances, namely, that the engagement is to be kept quiet for a little while on account of the condition of his father’s health. He says that he is an unreasonable man, and that he might take a prejudice against it.” During this announcement Mr. Quest had remained perfectly quiet, his face showing no signs of excitement, only his eyes shone with a curious light. “Indeed,” he said, “this is very interesting news.” “Yes,” said the Squire. “That is what I meant by saying that there would be no necessity to make any arrangements as to the future payment of interest, for Cossey has informed me that he proposes to put the mortgage bonds in the fire before his marriage.” “Indeed,” said Mr. Quest; “well, he could hardly do less, could he? Altogether, I think you ought to be congratulated, Mr. de la Molle. It is not often that a man gets such a chance of clearing the encumbrances off a property. And now I am very sorry, but I must be getting home, as I promised my wife to be back for luncheon. As the thing is to be kept quiet, I suppose that it would be premature for me to offer my good wishes to Miss de la Molle.” “Yes, yes, don’t say anything about it at present. Well, good-bye.” CHAPTER XXVI. BELLE PAYS A VISIT Mr. Quest got into his dog-cart and drove homewards, full of feelings which it would be difficult to describe.