“Pardon me,” he said to Ned Strong, “but would it not be well for us to go up to the manor-house at once?” Benedict did not lack courage, but, under the circumstances, he was pleased at the prospect of having an ally in his tour of investigation.
Rudolph Smolenski, pale with apprehension, but rendered active by the dark possibilities that threatened him, had placed himself at the doorway through which the young men threatened to pass. The Rexanian put up a hand with a gesture that was both threatening and imploring.
“Remain here, Mr. Strong; and you, sir. It may not be safe for you to go up to the house.”
“What do you mean, Rudolph?” asked Ned Strong, sternly. “Be careful, man. You are putting yourself in a very questionable position. Stand aside, and let us pass. If there’s any one in great danger, Rudolph, I think you’re the man. Stand aside.”
Kate Strong and Mrs. Brevoort, with hand clasped in hand, were seated side by side on the sofa, gazing with disturbed faces at the three men.
“Listen to Rudolph, Ned,” implored Kate. “He may be right. You may run a great risk in going to the house.”
Rudolph still stubbornly held his place in front of the door. Norman Benedict’s patience was at an end.
“Come, come, man,” he exclaimed. “Out of the way, or we’ll be obliged to use force. Do you hear me?”
Mrs. Brevoort had arisen. Ned Strong felt a gentle hand on his arm.