Albert’s colour came and went rapidly at this “but” of Learmont’s, and the squire continued calmly,—
“You observed my agitation yesterday.”
“I—I did, sir.”
“Can you guess its cause—that is, can you guess what brought on the spasm I am subject to?”
“I cannot, sir.”
“Then I will tell you. When you mentioned the name of Jacob Gray, a strange feeling came over me that I had heard it before, but I was not certain.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Yes. Since last you and I met, I have taken some pains to ascertain the fact, and I find that a man of that name has applied to me, hearing of my many charities for pecuniary assistance, saying that he had an orphan child to support, and was in great poverty.”
“Indeed, sir.”
“Such is the fact. His name is Jacob Gray.”