"I shall not trouble you. I shall go to town. You can stay with Dinah and with Mrs. Lilly for a time. Then Durban and I will see if we cannot get you some money from Mrs.--that is, from Lady Watson."
"Why should she give it to me?" asked Beatrice, shrugging.
"Because"--he began, then ended abruptly--"I cannot tell you."
"Vivian"--Beatrice moved swiftly forward and laid a firm hand on his shoulder--"I do not understand all this. Mr. Alpenny, poor wretch, hinted at crimes on your part."
"Do you believe him?" asked Vivian, turning his haggard young face towards her.
"No," she said firmly. "I love you too well for that."
"God bless you!" A tear dropped on the hand, which he kissed.
She drew it away. "But you are not open with me; you are not honest with me. If you have troubles, I have a right to share them. Tell me of this barrier."
"No," said Vivian firmly. "I cannot. I dare not. All I can say is that the barrier may be removed in time. Only trust me."
"Has the barrier to do with this crime?"