‘And you?’ Richard questioned, gazing at Teresa.
‘What a farce!’ Teresa sobbed; but at the same moment, try how she might to prevent it, a smile lighted her tears, and her hand found Richard’s hand.
Mr. Craig put the revolver back into the clock-case.
‘I expect you know that we didn’t yield to that tool of yours,’ said Richard half playfully. ‘I am truly fond of Teresa—that is the explanation. You wouldn’t have used that revolver, though you are certainly in some ways a strange man.’
‘As you are good enough to say, Redgrave, I am a strange man. I should have used the revolver.’
The way in which these words were uttered created a profound impression on Richard. Releasing Teresa’s hand, he began to consider what course he should now adopt in the joint interest of himself and of Teresa. He could not dismiss the suspicion that he had a madman to deal with.
‘If I may,’ said he to Mr. Craig, ‘I should like a few words with Teresa outside. After that there are several things to be settled between you, sir, and me.’
Mr. Craig nodded.
‘It is late,’ he said.
‘Yes,’ said Richard, ‘but such nights as this do not follow every day in the week.’