Adrian recoiled as if he had received a blow. She asked him to find himself, quite ignorant of the strange transformation which had taken place, and he—what could he do in the matter? He was unable to produce his own body, void as it was of any vital principle, and yet, if he told the truth, he would be looked upon as a madman.
As these thoughts flashed rapidly through his brain, he saw at a glance the precipice upon which he stood and resolved to gain time by dexterously temporising so as to form some plan of action. Sir John had strolled outside on to the lawn so he was quite alone with Olive, and could speak freely.
"Adrian Lancaster," he said smoothly. "I don't think I have had the pleasure of meeting him."
"No! At the time you were visiting us in town, he was away on the continent, but although you do not know him personally, I dare say you have seen his name in the papers of late."
Adrian pretended to think for a moment.
"Yes, I fancy I have," he replied, anxious to learn from Olive's lips the true condition of Philip Trevanna, "did he not attempt to commit a murder?"
Olive arose to her feet rapidly, with a look of anger on her expressive face.
"No he did not," she answered in a clear, vibrating voice. "Mr. Trevanna is now getting better, and has made a statement which completely exonerates Mr. Lancaster from any such intention."
"Thank God," thought Adrian thankfully, "at all events my character will be cleared even although I am unable to defend myself."
Mistaking his silence for disbelief, Olive went on to explain the circumstances of the case.