It was late when the three at last rose to retire. But Douglas did not mind, for he was glad to have such interested listeners. But the part of his story that was nearest his heart he did not tell. Not even to the Gartons would he reveal his love for Nell, and all that she meant to him.
Douglas walked with Garton down the street the next morning toward the lawyer's office.
"Well, what is your decision as to the Stubbles' affair?" the latter asked. "I suppose you have it all cut and dried."
"Not altogether," was the reply. "I spent much of the night thinking it over, but am not fully decided yet. But there is one thing I would like you to do."
"What is that?"
"Come to Rixton and let us both meet Stubbles and have it out with him.
What do you think of the idea?"
"It is a good one, and it has been in my mind ever since you told me your story last night."
"When can you come? To-day? I am going back this afternoon."
"I cannot go until to-morrow. I shall go in my auto in the morning and not bother with the train."
"Come right to Jake Jukes' house and I shall get Mrs. Jukes to have dinner ready. I know it will be a good one, so bring your appetite with you. Don't be too late."