'That's what's the matter: that's why I'm nearly crying.'
'I don't see it in that light, but I'm sorry you heard. It's a secret that Airey——'
'A secret! Yes, I should think it was. Are you anything that I don't know of? I mean a burglar, or a swindler, or anything of that kind?'
'You do know that I'm a solicitor?' Tommy wanted to relieve the strain of the conversation.
'I meant to stay with you, and perhaps to take you out to dinner——'
'Well, why won't you? I haven't done anything—except forget that it's not wise to talk too loudly about my clients' business.'
'I'm just going to Danes Inn to see Airey Newton.'
'Oh!' Tommy nodded gravely. 'You think of doing that?'
'It's what I'm going to do directly. I've a hansom at the door.'
'I'm sure you've a hansom at the door,' agreed Tommy. 'Sit down one minute, please,' he added. 'I want you to do something for me.'