"'A Friend in Need,' by S. Beale. I didn't know you wrote!" she said in surprise.
"I am literary and even worse," he said flippantly. "I see you have a shelf of books here. If you will allow me I will put it with the others."
"But mayn't I see it?"
He shook his head.
"I just want to tell you all you have said about van Heerden is true. He is a most dangerous man. He may yet be dangerous to you. I don't want you to touch that little book unless you are in really serious trouble. Will you promise me?"
She opened her eyes wide.
"But, Mr. Beale——?"
"Will you promise me?" he said again.
"Of course I'll promise you, but I don't quite understand."