Spiker raised his eyebrows, and looked much concerned.

‘When the question was referred to Lord — I needn’t name him,’ said Mr. Gulpidge, checking himself —

‘I understand,’ said Mr. Spiker, ‘N.’

Mr. Gulpidge darkly nodded — ‘was referred to him, his answer was, “Money, or no release.”’

‘Lord bless my soul!’ cried Mr. Spiker.

“‘Money, or no release,”’ repeated Mr. Gulpidge, firmly. ‘The next in reversion — you understand me?’

‘K.,’ said Mr. Spiker, with an ominous look.

‘ — K. then positively refused to sign. He was attended at Newmarket for that purpose, and he point-blank