Selwyn passed his hand querulously over his face. The clergyman looked at him with a feeling of pervading compassion.
'I was going to ask about Gerard Van Derwater,' said Selwyn, 'How is he?'
'Van's very well. He is in the Intelligence Division right here in New
York.'
'I heard he was engaged to Marjory Shoreham.'
'Yes—he was. They broke it off a few weeks ago; or, rather, she did.'
'I am sorry to hear that,' said Selwyn earnestly. 'I always liked her immensely, and I was glad that poor old Van had been the lucky suitor. You remember how I used to say that he always carried a certain atmosphere of impending tragedy, although he was never gloomy or moody about it.'
'Well, Austin, I think the tragedy has come.'
'I must see him,' said Selwyn. 'In coming back here, you and he were the two I wanted most to meet. I knew that neither of you would withdraw your friendship without good reason; but also I knew you would tell me bluntly where I stood. Why did Marjory break off with Van?'
The clergyman told what he knew, and at the conclusion of the story
Selwyn rose to his feet.
'I must see Van at once,' he said. 'There's more in this than appears on the surface. If you will give me his number, I'll find out when we can get together.'