So Paul never attempted to investigate the fascination which an exposure of Mr. Gibbs had for him, coupled with a vague sort of desire to save Mr. Richard Tallant and Mr. Hammerton from the machinations of so consummate a scoundrel. The sequel, however, may appear as if some secret power were at work to bring those two opposing forces, Paul Somerton and Shuffleton Gibbs, in contact. He had watched at the club-door for some nights before Mr. Hammerton appeared again. He came at last, however, and Paul at once accosted him. It had occurred to Paul previously that he would endeavour to watch the players until he openly detected Shuffleton’s double cards, and then rush into the room and denounce him. But this he thought would compromise the poor club-keeper’s position, and was a little more showy and romantic than necessary. So Paul accosted the Hon. Mr. Hammerton, and as he did so Mr. Shuffleton Gibbs passed into the club, and noticed the incident. Mr. Hammerton was impatient at first, but when Paul told him whom he was, his curiosity was aroused, and Paul’s earnestness soon rivetted his attention. “Not a very creditable part to play, my young friend, that of spy upon the conduct of your master and his friends, by-and-by,” said Mr. Hammerton. “If I do good thereby to my master?” said Paul, a little timidly, as the nature of his employment struck him in the new light suggested by Mr. Hammerton. “I think you have overstepped the bounds of both duty and prudence,” said Mr. Hammerton. “You may change your opinion,” said Paul, more courageously. “I entered upon the business in your interest as well as Mr. Tallant’s.” “Oh, indeed!” said Mr. Hammerton; “that was very kind of you, certainly. From whom did you receive your instructions?” Paul did not reply; his pride was hurt, he had not expected such a reception as this. “Suppose I inform Mr. Tallant how you have occupied yourself during these last few weeks?” said Mr. Hammerton; for _his_ pride and dignity were hurt also, and he was offended at this interference with his liberty, in doubt for the moment whether Paul was a tool in more skilled hands. “I shall watch no more, sir,” said Paul. “You may take your own course; I have done my duty. You know how to test the truth of what I have told you. Good-night, sir.” Paul disappeared without another word, although Mr. Hammerton called after him. He felt miserably disappointed as he went home, and could not help feeling that there was something of the sneak in his composition, after all. Why had he persevered so in this wretched business? Why had he done so much more than his sister had asked him to do? He would move no further in it now. After all his trouble, to be snubbed, and by the gentleman most to be benefited! “Well, people should mind their own business,” he said to himself. “I’ll mind mine in future.”