"Not a doubt about it," he answered, "if she chose."
"And afterwards?"
"Well, it wouldn't be pleasant," he admitted. "I think I should get out of it, but it might be awkward. And in getting out of it, I might perhaps bring more pain upon Joan than any she has suffered yet."
"Did any one kill Father, Douglas?"
He hesitated.
"I didn't."
"Do you know who did?"
"I'm afraid I can guess."
She was silent for a moment. Then they turned off into the side street where his rooms were, and she passed her arm through his.
"There, now I'm going to banish that and all unpleasant subjects," she declared. "Do you know, I feel ridiculously light-hearted to-day, Douglas. I warn you that I shall be a frivolous companion."