"Is he a member of the conspiracy?"
"It appears so—but I am not certain. He may be an innocent dupe," replied the Secretary.
"And you let the specie go?" she asked.
"Yes," he said. "When I discovered where they were sending the chests I helped them. It's safer in the Bank than knocking round here, and I can prevent its being drawn out any time I wish."
"By the arrest of the conspirators?" she said.
"I hope that it won't be necessary to arrest anybody," he replied.
"Then you have some plan?"
"Yes. But I'm afraid you mustn't ask me what that is. Nor must you write a word of all this to your father. But I promise you that if it's possible I'll save your husband from open disgrace, and I think it will be."
"Thank you, thank you," she murmured. "You are indeed my friend," and her hand again sought his, and he quivered under her touch.
"Listen!" she said. "They're moving."