Deane rose.
"I think," he said, "we had better go downstairs. The ladies will be wondering what has become of us. My wife is expecting a young woman in this evening whom I think you know—Stella Duge."
Vine started slightly.
"Yes," he said, "I have met Miss Duge often in New York."
CHAPTER V
A QUESTION OF COURAGE
Stella turned towards him with a slight frown upon her forehead.
"Do you mean, Norris, then, that after all you will not use your power over these men, that you will let them go free?"
"Not if I can help it," he answered, "but there are many things to be considered. I shall be guided largely by what Deane advises."
"It is absurd," she declared. "You have wanted money all your life, money and power. You have both now in your grasp. If you do not use them, I shall think—"