"Since I saw you yesterday, a matter has come to my knowledge which I feel bound to investigate, before proceeding any farther in this business." As if struck by a heavy blow, Jasper moved a pace or two backward, while an instant pallor overspread his face. Quickly recovering himself, he said-- "Explain yourself, Edward. What matter has come to your knowledge?" "On that subject I would prefer speaking with you alone," replied Claire. "This room is at your service," said Grind, rising and retiring toward his front office. "You will be altogether free from intrusion." And he passed out, closing the door behind him. "Edward," said Jasper, in as firm a voice as he could assume, "What is the meaning of this? You look at me with an expression of countenance, and have spoken in a tone that implies a belief on your part that I have not acted fairly in the matter of this guardianship." "Such, at least, is my impression," replied Claire, firmly. "Have you come here to insult me, sir?" Jasper drew himself up with an offended manner. "No, Mr. Jasper. I have no such intention. All I purpose is, to ascertain how far certain information received by me this morning is correct." "What information?" The merchant became a good deal agitated. "A man named Martin called on me"-- "Martin! oh, the wretch! My curses rest on him, for a base betrayer!" Claire was startled at the effect produced by his mention of the name of Martin. Jasper, on hearing this name, believed that every thing had been divulged, and, in the bitterness and despair of this conviction, threw off all concealment. His countenance, which had partly gained its usual colour, became pallid again, while large beads of sweat oozed from the relaxed pores and stood upon his forehead. Moving back a step or two, he sank into a chair, and averting his face, sat struggling with himself to regain the mastery over his feelings. How changed, in a few brief years, had become the relation of these two men. The poor, humble, despised, but honest clerk, now stood erect, while the merchant cowered before him in humiliation and fear. "Edward," said Jasper, as soon as he had sufficient composure of mind to think somewhat clearly and speak calmly, "What do you purpose doing in this matter?" "What is right, Mr. Jasper," answered Claire, firmly. "That is my duty." "Ruin! ruin! ruin!" exclaimed Jasper, in a low voice, again losing command of himself, and wringing his hands hopelessly. "Oh! that it should have come to this!" Astonished as Claire was by what he now heard and saw, he felt the necessity of preserving the most entire self-possession. When Jasper again put the question-- "What do you purpose doing, Edward?" he replied.