Lesbia shuddered, "How horrible; how sordid. And my father?" her voice sank.
"He is in the swim also, so are Maud Ellis and Tait. Indeed, I believe that Tait is the head of the whole infernal business. But that I knew your father was in with the lot and that I wished to spare you, I would have gone to the police at once."
"Oh!" Lesbia's tears dropped on her lover's hand, "how dreadful it all is."
George knelt before her and drew her head down on his shoulder. "There, there, dear!" he said, gently drying her eyes, "don't worry; we'll be married soon, and then you will be taken away from this terrible life."
"Tim also," murmured Lesbia tearfully, "I can't leave Tim behind."
"Of course he'll come too," said George cheerily, "I don't believe that he knew anything of the rascality that was going on."
"I think he did," said Lesbia doubtfully, "not that he is wicked himself. But he knew and, I believe, held his dear tongue for my sake."
"Tim would do anything for you, darling, in the same way as Canning would."
"Poor Mr. Canning--I mean Mr. Sargent."
"No, don't call him by his real name; he wishes to be known simply as Canning--The Shadow. He belongs to the gang and so does that Mrs. Petty who was set to watch you."