Meg's report proved to be true. Joad's rage had died out into a subdued nervousness, and his red face had paled to a yellowish hue. He said little and ate little, but Dora noticed that he drank more than his ordinary allowance of whisky-and-water. Every now and then he cast a furtive glance round the room, as though waiting anxiously for the unexpected to happen. His conduct reminded Dora of the late Mr. Edermont's behaviour in church during the Litany, and there was no doubt in her mind as to Joad's feelings. He had received a shock, and in consequence thereof he was thoroughly frightened.
Towards the end of the meal he grew more composed, under the influence of the spirits and water, and it was then that he abruptly informed Dora that he was going into Canterbury.
"You are going into Canterbury," she echoed, fairly astonished, "this afternoon?"
"Yes; I have not been in the town for months. But I wish to consult--a lawyer."
"About the loss of your book, I suppose?"
Joad raised his heavy eyes, and sent a piercing glance in her direction.
"Yes," he said, in a quiet tone, "I wish to consult about that loss."
"Will you see Mr. Carver?"
"On the whole," said Joad, with great deliberation, "I think I shall see Mr. Carver. He knows much; he may as well know more."
"What do you mean?" asked Dora, startled by the significance of this speech.