"I don't know," she continued, presently, "how Allan Fortescue discovered what was going on, but he did. One day I received a communication from him--I can't call it a letter--telling me that he knew the sort of life I was leading, and that unless I kept my promise to him he would speak and tell Lewin the truth even now. He knew and could prove where I had sold the diamonds. In reply to that I induced him to meet me in the Oxley Woods, and persuaded him to give me a little more time. I promised to tell Lewin that very night about my debts. Instead, I went to London. I really meant to start afresh; but I thought I could raise some money and get fairly straight without saying anything to my husband. I--I stayed longer than I meant. Allan came to look for me. He followed me to the places where he thought I was likely to be--he must have kept a watch upon me for some time past--but our meeting at last was accidental. I was really at my wits' end, and I went into Franconi's with Allan to talk things over. We saw General Anson leave the place, and I think that made Allan decide there must be no more concealment; also, I suppose he felt it was useless to trust me any longer. He went straight from me to Aunt Mary and fetched her. She knew that he must be speaking the truth. I had promised to go home that night anyhow; but I don't know what I might have done if I had been left to myself. Then you and Lewin appeared----It is better as it is--I should never have had the strength, the courage--I am so sorry--so sorry--for Lewin--for myself--for Allan--for my little child that is coming----" She turned her face to the wall, and I saw her slight frame shiver with voiceless, choking tears. There is little more to tell. Lady Maxwell lived only a few months after she had made this confession. Her child survived--a son--and there are three men who watch over that boy with perhaps exaggerated solicitude and love--his father, Allan Fortescue, and myself. Will he reward our care? I think so. He has his mother's face and charm, but in character he takes after Sir Lewin. Allan Fortescue has remained in the village as my curate. I trust he may never leave me, and that the bishop may see fit hereafter to appoint him vicar in my stead; I am growing old. _Illustrated Interviews._ No. LXXXI.--DR. EDWARD ELGAR. BY RUDOLPH DE CORDOVA. [Illustration: _From a Photo. by_] DR. EDWARD ELGAR. [_George Newnes, Ltd._]