"Gentlemen--our very good friends," said Lord Ellingham, "it is only right that we should take you into our confidence at once. There will be no litigation, Mr. Carless--no difficulties, Mr. Pawle. I absolutely insist on resigning--what is not mine--to my cousin, the Countess of Ellingham. And--not in any return, gentlemen!--she has promised to give me something which I shall prize far more than any title or any estate--you understand? And now, if Mr. Viner will excuse me, there are just a few more things we have to say to each other, and then--" He drew the girl back into the room and closed the door, and the three men, once more left to themselves, solemnly shook hands with each other, heaving sighs of infinite delight and gratification. THE END