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But now upon this tense silence came the soft, smooth tones of

Mr Chichester: "Pray, Mr Beverley, may I speak a ith you--in private?"

"If the company will excuse us," Barnabas replied; whereupon

Mr Chichester rose and led the way into the adjoining roo the door, took a folded letter from his pocket

"Sir," said he, "I would remind you that the last time wepeople, it

seereed to--certain

conditions, you would dispossess me of my inheritance--"

"And I repeat it," said Barnabas

"Oh, sir, save your breath and listen," set threats, and warnings, warnings!

Here is one, which I think--yes, which I venture to think you will

heed!" So saying, he unfolded the letter and laid it upon the table

Barnabas glanced at it, hesitated, then stooping, read as follows: DEAR LADY CLEONE,--I write this to warn you that the person calling

hientle better than a rich vulgarian, one

Barnabas Barty, son of a country inn-keeper The truth of which