unusual to show how strongly I feel on the present occasion. I have not been so delighted for many years. To think,' he reflected aloud as the waiter filled his glass, 'of the Manderson mystery disposed of, the innocent exculpated, and your own and Mabel's happiness crowned–all coming upon me together! I drink to you, my dear friend.' And Mr Cupples took a very small sip of the wine.
'You have a great nature,' said Trent, much moved. 'Your outward semblance doth belie your soul's immensity. I should have expected as soon to see an elephant conducting at the opera as you drinking my health. Dear Cupples! May his beak retain ever that delicate rose-stain!–No, curse it all!' he broke out, surprising a shade of discomfort that flitted over his companion's face as he tasted the wine again. 'I have no business to meddle with your tastes. I apologize. You shall have what you want, even if it causes the head-waiter to perish in his pride.'
When Mr. Cupples had been supplied with his monastic drink, and the waiter had retired, Trent looked across the table with significance. 'In this babble of many conversations,' he said,
