"And who were those gentlemen?"
"That's exactly what I can't tell you."
"Can't tell?"
"Won't, if you like it better. There, don't look vexed. I'll tell you this much, one of them was my uncle,--my real uncle, I firmly believe,--though on which side you must find out."
"And the other?"
"The other I love dearer than any one on earth."
"Dearer than you loved--"
"I know who you're going to say; infinitely dearer! but in--there; there's enough of that. One thing more I'll tell you: up to this hour I've never been told my father's name or rank in life."
"And this benevolent uncle did it all? Quite like a play, by Jove! Well, I've not learned much; but I may be able to make something of it--something that will be good for us both."
"That's all right! and now your business is finished?"