Two young lawyers, partners in a small Eastern city, got along well, although it was generally agreed that Hampton, the senior partner, was domineering, while junior partner Gray was regarded as meek and inoffensive. One day there was a sensation in the town, for Hampton was found slain in his own home. It was proven at the inquest he had left his office in the late afternoon, his partner and their only clerk being still at work. When the body was found, alarm was promptly given, and a policeman called up the firm to secure details. The clerk and the junior partner were still there, both of whom showed evidence of surprise and grief. The police investigated, but the matter remained a mystery, for it was never satisfactorily cleared up. Twenty years later, the Hampton family again crossed Gray's path when his daughter, injured in an accident, might have been killed had it not been for the bravery of Hampton's only son. The young couple fell in love, and the father seemed to watch the progress of the courtship with satisfaction. When asked his consent to the marriage he gladly agreed. While announcing it he was stricken and nearly died. He never recovered, and while on his deathbed confided to his doctor a document which explained confession of the murder. Hampton had quarreled with and beaten him, and the tragedy was due to Gray's rage and humiliation. He regretted the deed and for twenty years had been daily a victim of remorse. He believed he might make retribution by giving up the only person he loved, his beautiful daughter. He consented that the doctor should make any use he pleased of the confession. The doctor considered the matter. The real slayer passed beyond fear of earthly punishment. To besmirch his name would only injure the innocent, but on the other hand, was it advisable to permit a young man to marry the daughter of his father's slayer. Under the circumstances it is an extremely hard thing to decide, and the doctor is still considering what is the best thing to do.
