"Surely, nothing in that letter can be so misconstrued as to implicate me."
"Mr. Wayne, this prevarication is as useless as it is unseemly. You know that the letter is sufficient warrant for my proceeding. My carriage is at the door. I trust you will accompany me without further delay."
"Sir, I was about to proceed, when you entered, upon an errand that involves the safety and happiness of the young lady mentioned in that letter. The letter itself will inform you of the circumstance, and I assure you, events are in progress that require my immediate action. You will at least allow me to visit the party?"
The marshal looked at him with surprise.
"What party?"
"The lady of whom my friend makes mention."
"I do not understand you. I can only conceive that, for some purpose of your own, you are anxious to gain time. I must request you to accompany me at once to the carriage."
"You will permit me at least to send a, letter—a word—a warning?"
"That your accomplice may receive information? Assuredly not."
"Be yourself the messenger—or send"——