WYLDER'S HAJVD.
335
not corresponded. I know — upon my honor and soul,
sir — nothing on earth about him — what he's doing,
where he is, or what's become of him. But I can't hear
a man of business like you assert, upon what he con-
ceives to be reliable information, that Mark Wylder is no
more, without being a good deal shocked."
;' I quite understand, sir — quite, Captain Lake. It is
very serious, sir, very; but I can't believe it has gone
that length, quite. I shall know more, of course, when
I've seen James Dutton. I can't think, I mean, he's been
made away with in that sense; nor how that could benefit
anyone; and I'd much rather, Captain Lake, move in this
matter — since move I must — in your interest — I mean,
as your friend and- man of business — than in any way,
Captain Lake, that might possibly involve you in trou-
ble."
"You are my man of business —aren't you? and have
no grounds for ill-will — eh?" said the Captain, drily.
"No ill-will, certainly — quite the reverse. Thank
Heaven, I think I may truly say, I bear ill-will to no man
living; and wish you, Captain Lake, nothing but good,
sir — nothing but good."
"Except a hasty word or two, I know no reason you
should not," said the Captain, in the same tone.
"Quite so. But, Captain Brandon Lake, there is
nothing like being completely above-board — it has been
my rule through life; and I will say — that I have of
late been anything but satisfied with the position which,
» jstensibly your professional adviser and confidential man
of business, I have occupied. Has there been any real
confidence, Captain Lake, upon your part? You have
certainly had relations with Mr. Mark Wylder — corres-
pondence, for anything I know. You have entertained
the project of purchasing the Reverend William Wylder'a