“That's what I came for, isn't it?”

“Hm! You don't seem to be overly pleased with the job.”

“Which isn't surprising, when I haven't the first idea what it is, except that it seems likely to get me killed or in jail.”

“Oh, if you're feeling that way about it, I know of another job that will suit you better in—”

“I'm not afraid,” I broke in hotly. “But I want to see the noose before I put my head in it.”

“Then I'm sure the assistant bookkeeper's place I have in mind will—”

“Confound your impudence!” I cried, laughing in spite of myself at the way he was playing on me. “Assistant bookkeeper be hanged! I'm with you from A to Z; but if you love me, don't keep me in the dark.”

“I'll tell you all you need to know. Too much might be dangerous.”

I was about to protest that I could not know too much, when Henry raised his hand with a warning to silence. I heard the sound of a cautious step outside. Then Henry sprang to the door, flung it open, and bolted down the passage. There was the gleam of a revolver in his hand. I hurried after him, but as I crossed the threshold he was coming softly back, with finger on lips.

“I must see to the guards again. I can have them together by midnight.”