“He does not,” said Arthur, quietly.

“Have you heard from him more than once?”

“Only once,” said Arthur.

“Does he mention Barton Hall? Pray, be plain with me: on your honour, as a gentleman?”

“Yes, he does,” said Arthur.

“How? does he send any message?”

“He desires to be remembered to Miss Tallant.”

“Meaning Phœbe, of course?”

“Yes,” said Arthur.

“And he does not refer to me in any way?”