"I would speak somewhat anent that same matter, Anthony," said Arthur, suddenly turning upon his friend, and signing him to take the seat opposite. "It is in some sort on that account I have come. But first tell me--is Thomas Garret safely away?"
Yes; on his way--"
"Nay, tell me not that. I have no wish to learn his whereabouts--only that he is safe outside the city, and not likely to be taken."
"He has been away these two days; and if not taken already, I trow he will escape altogether."
Arthur heaved a sigh of satisfaction and relief.
"I am right glad to hear that, Anthony--for your sake almost more than for his, since you are my friend."
"And why for my sake, Arthur?"
"Marry, thus that had Garret been found in the place, they would not have stopped short with laying hands upon him. They would have seized also those who had consorted with him. Not finding him, they begin to doubt whether the cardinal was right in tracing him hither, and whether he and his books have indeed been brought here. But let them once lay hands upon him, and not he alone, but also his comrades and associates, will stand in much peril. So have a care, friend Anthony."
Dalaber felt the thrill of what was half relief, half fear, run through him; but his glance did not quail.
"He is gone," he answered quietly, "and no man has sought to lay hands upon me."