"I shall lose my place, my lord."
"I am sorry for you, Shaw. You had better make off, and leave the responsibility with me."
The man wavered, took the coin from Lord Watergate's hand, then, turning, went slowly back to his own quarters.
Gertrude came forward into the light.
"You must not come in, Lord Watergate."
Her mind worked with curious rapidity; she saw that a meeting between the two men must be avoided.
"I cannot let you go alone. You do not know——"
"I am prepared for anything. Lord Watergate, spare my sister's shame."
She had passed him, with set, tragic face. He saw the slim, rapid figure, in the black, snow-covered dress, make its way down the passage, then disappear behind the curtain which guarded the entrance to the studio.