The Martins Of Cro' Martin, Vol. I (of II) Page 9

  CHAPTER VIII. SOME KNOTTY POINTS THAT PUZZLED JOE NELLIGAN

  This true history contains no record of the evening Mr. Scanlan passedat the Osprey's Nest; nor is it probable that in any diary kept by thatintelligent individual there will yet be found materials to supply thishistorical void. Whether, therefore, high events and their consequenceswere discussed, or that the meeting was only devoted to themes oflighter importance, is likely to remain a secret to all time. Thatmatters beneath the range of politics occupied the consideration of theparties was, however, evident from the following few lines of a notereceived by young Nelligan the next morning:--

  "Dear Joe,--I dined yesterday at the 'Nest,' and we talked much of you. What would you think of paying a visit there this morning to see the picture, or anything else you can think of? I 've a notion it would be well taken. At all events, come over and speak to me here.

  "Ever yours,

  "M. SCANLAN."