PAULA LEFT THE ASYLUM OFFICE ACCOMPANIED BY THE NURSE.
Paula gave him a long look of gratitude, and, with a sigh of resignation, left the office in company with the head attendant. As soon as the women had disappeared Tod's gaiety of manner underwent a sudden change. Gulping down a dry sob, he broke down completely, and, throwing himself on to a chair, covered his face with his two hands.
"Oh, the damned scoundrels!" he cried, with a vehemence that astonished the lawyer, who had little suspected so much feeling in a youth apparently so flippant. "To think," went on the young man, "that they dare do such a cruel thing as this! How I wish I had them both in a twenty-four-foot ring—if I wouldn't give them what they deserved!"
Mr. Ricaby was anxious to hear what his companion had to impart to him.
"Now, tell me," he said impatiently, "what proofs have you got?"
"I have no absolute proof," replied the other. "Only a very strong suspicion."
"But I thought you said you had proofs?" cried the lawyer, disappointed.
"I said that to comfort her. I have no absolute proofs. I am just as much stumped for an idea as to what course to take as you are. But the girl can't stay any longer in this place—that is certain. I have a plan that may work out all right."
"What is it?" demanded the other.
"Just a minute," replied Tod. "I want to telephone mother to come over. She may be able to help us."