That didn't appeal to me in the least. "Wouldn't it be very invidious, sir, if I was to go to you when I've only just left my aunt's?"
"I've a good mind to use my official power to compel you, my boy," he returned laughingly; "but the wife shall talk to you about it. In any case you must promise to let us see as much of you as possible."
That was easy to promise; and after a few moments we went out together.
If he wasn't sincere, then he was one of the best actors in the world either on or off the stage.
Which was he?
I could find no answer to the question. Yet everything probably depended upon it—Nessa's fate and my freedom, and possibly even my life.
CHAPTER XI
THE PROBLEM OF VON GRATZEN
As soon as we were in the street von Gratzen linked his arm in mine. "It won't do you any harm to be seen in public with me," he said jestingly; and even in that half-bantering remark he managed to convey a subtle meaning.