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He now advanced toward the young man, who had alighted, and holding out his hand to Fred, said with grateful courtesy:

"My daughter tells me, sir, you have saved her life. I am not in the habit of making fine speeches; but believe me, sir, the heartfelt gratitude of an old man will ever follow you."

Fred bowed in silence.

"And don't you know this young gentleman, papa?" said Edith, with an arch glance toward Gus.

"I have not that hon—eh?" he added, suddenly—"can it be? Bless my soul! Gus Elliott, is this yourself?" and the major seized his hand with a grip of iron.

"Well, sir," replied Gus, with a grimace, "if ever I had any doubts on the subject, the aching of my fingers, at present, has convinced me I am myself, and no mistake."

"Well, well, well!", exclaimed the major, surveying him from head to foot with his sharp eyes, "how you have shot up since I saw you last! And you're Gus Elliott! Well, who'd have thought it? Edith! Ah, she has gone, I see. Walk up, gentlemen—walk up. Mrs. Percival will be delighted to see you."