"Because you had a severe illness which affected your memory."
"Then there is nothing in my past that I need to be ashamed of?"
"Nothing," if you mean as regards your parents. "As to yourself, my dear Neil, your life has been most exemplary. I am proud of you."
"Are you sufficiently proud of me to let me be your son-in-law?"
Mr. Cass tugged at his long moustache. "I cannot truthfully say that I should like that," he said. "Does Ruth care for you?"
"Yes; we want to marry--with your consent."
"That you shall never have."
"Why not?"
"I don't approve of the marriage. For your own sake, don't ask the reason."
Neil Webster started to his feet with a look of horror. "Ah!" he cried. "Then the dream was true. My father was murdered!"