“I have found a friend,” he said.

“So I perceive,” replied our Reporter.

“You offered awhile ago to lend me a sovereign. I refused to accept it. Will you lend it me now?”

Our Reporter gave it to him instantly, without a word.

The swift graciousness of the response appeared to touch Antony Cowlrick, and an expression of gratitude dwelt on his features.

“I thank you. My gratitude will remain ever as a debt. I appreciate your delicacy in not intruding upon my interview with my friend.”

“She is not a new friend,” observed our Reporter.

“No, indeed,” was the reply.

“It seems to me that she might have appeared at the police-court to give evidence in your favour.”

“Supposing she could say anything in my favour.”