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 CHAPTER XI.

 A SHABBY TRICK.
 How comes this trick upon him ?"
 -Shakespeare.

 ACK'S thoughts were so pensive and con-
 centrated on what he had just been listen-
 "ing to, that he did not notice the rather un-
usual fact of the avenue gate being open, nor did he
observe the fresh marks of a vehicle upon the gravel
of the avenue. If he had, he would have felt very
much surprised, as visitors rarely drove up to Hill-
side in the early part of the day.
 Suddenly, however, as a bend in the avenue brought
him within sight of the house, what was his astonish-
ment to see a cab, laden with luggage, standing in
front of the porch door !
 He quickened his steps, and as he reached the
door, was met by Polly, who came flying out at the
sight of him.
 "0 Jacko! what do you think ?" shrieked that