"Ah," he said, "it was true!"
Candish did not answer, and they went into the study in silence. The host sat down in the well-worn chair by his writing-table, while Philip took a seat facing him.
"What a foolish thing for me to say," Ashe broke out; then surprised at the querulousness of his tone he stopped abruptly.
"Mr. Ashe," Candish said gravely, "if there is anything I can do for you will you tell me what it is?"
Philip rose quickly, and took a step towards him, leaning down over the thin, homely face.
"I have found you out!" he cried with exultation. "I came to confess my sin to you, and I find that you love her too!"
"Don't be hysterical and melodramatic," was the cool response. "Sit down, and let us talk rationally if we are to talk at all."
The manner of Candish recalled Philip to himself. He sat down heavily.
"I beg your pardon," he said. "Since that fight I have been half beside myself. I am like a hysterical girl."
The other regarded him compassionately.