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"Rather. Jimmy's performance has earned approval in high quarters. Ouf!" the Inspector rose with a yawn, "I must ask you to put me up for the night, Mr. Hustings. I have travelled from London, and feel too tired to go on to Tarhaven. Give me a shakedown."

"Delighted," said Dick, cordially. "Tell Brent to see to your supper and your room. I'll be with you shortly."

Trant opening the door, laughed approvingly. He guessed that the lovers wished for a solitude of two. "Enjoy your golden hour, young people, and so make up for your many leaden days. My blessing on you both. Ha! Ha! Ha!" and he went out through the doorway, chuckling heartily.

When alone with Aileen, the young man folded her in his arms, "Darling, try now to forget our troubles of the past. This is the end."

"No!" she whispered softly, "remember what Edith said when she was dying: 'This is the beginning of something more glorious, more wonderful,' because—you and I are together for always."

"There is nothing more glorious than the thought that you will soon be my own dear wife."

"And nothing more wonderful than the way in which everything has been discovered, so that we can marry in peace."

"And all from the one word 'Whispering,' " mused Dick. "Curious how that word haunted me, until I laid its ghost. But I must close the door, or you will be getting cold. Oh, Aileen, look! The moon!"

And indeed it was the moon, now breaking in white splendour, through the grey mists which were gradually dissolving into nothingness. The lovers stood at

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