"Yes; I have thought of asking Mr. Grey. But he is such a busy man. He will have, I daresay, a great deal to do on account of your father's will. It would be too much to expect him to spare time for coming down here and looking after a lot of lazy workmen. In fact, it would be out of the question. As to a clerk of works, or anything of that kind, I would not dream of such a thing. They wink at scamped work for a consideration, and order things they do not want. Dear Maud, I weary you with lime-and-mortar matter." "No, no, no; I like to hear you talk in this way. It is as if--as if----" She paused, unable for the moment to mould her thoughts into words. "As if what, Maud?" "As if you liked to talk to me in this way." Her eyes were fixed on his, his on hers. For a moment neither spoke. Then he said: "Yes, I do like to talk to you in this familiar business-way. You know we are alone now in the world; and if I don't talk freely to you, to whom else on earth am I?" "I had a note from Mr. Grey this morning, saying he has returned, and will be here to-day. Had you not better speak to him?" "I will. That is settled. If he hesitates, I shall not allow him to do it; but I shall try what he will say. Even if he refuses he may be able to suggest some trustworthy person he knows. You see, I have been so short a time in England, and am such an utter stranger here, I know no one." When Grey came he found the cousins together. Some routine matters having been disposed of, Sir William asked the banker if he would take a stroll with him across the Island, as he wished to speak to him about business. The banker would be most happy. Arm-in-arm the two left the Castle-yard, gained the grass, and walked towards the Ferry. "Mr. Grey," began the young man, "I leave this neighbourhood the day after to-morrow." "I am sincerely sorry to hear you say so." "Thank you. Now I am going to try and induce you to let me get even further into your debt----" "Sir William, it is quite unnecessary for you to say a word with such a view. I told you to draw for any moderate sum you might require, and your cheque would be honoured----" "I am much obliged to you; but it is not money this time." Grey bowed. He wondered: "Has he already proposed, and is he going to talk to me about the will? This looks bad." "You know what rogues there are in the world?" "I should think I do. I have excellent cause to know of some kinds of rogues," Grey said. He thought: "This is becoming exciting--diverting."