"Hallo! Elersley, what in the name of all that's wonderful are you at now?"
Guy looked suddenly up, but he could not hide the worn and pained expression that covered his face. His voice assumed a cheerfulness, he was far from feeling as he bade his friend be seated.
"The room is in a queer state," he said, "but you wont mind that."
"Well I mind it a good deal, if it means what it looks like—are you off?
"Yes," answered Guy in a steady tone, "I am leaving Ottawa to-morrow, it's a cursed hole for a fellow to live in, and I'm sorry I did not find it out before."
"Well, upon my word," said Standish, throwing one leg over the end of Guy's trunk, "you are a queer fellow. What's going wrong that you are so blue about matters? I thought you were an enviable sort of fellow, with a snug little prospect before you, and here you are, as down in the mouth as if you hadn't a hope in the world. What's up old boy?"
Guy turned his back to the window, and leaned against the writing table with both hands.
"Oh! things have gone a little roughly that's all, and I prefer new pastures when there are troubles in the old ones. I have been a little foolish, I suppose, and now I am reaping my reward."
His face grew pitiably serious as he turned to Vivian saying:
"There's only one little matter I am leaving unsettled, Standish, and will you manage it for me? I cannot do it myself."