Of course Ronald went straight to Foster's office, and there made his report regarding the statements of Vassalla. The barrister listened to Monteith in silence, and, when he was in full possession of the facts, sat absently scribbling on his blotting-paper, much to Ronald's disgust at what he deemed his inattention. "Hang it, Foster," said the Australian, irritably, "I wish you'd say something; you've not lost your tongue, have you?"
"No; nor my brains either," retorted Foster, lighting a cigarette, "you'd better have a smoke; it will soothe you."
"I don't want to be soothed."
"Oh, yes, you do," returned Gerald, imperturbably; "try one of these; they are real Russian cigarettes."
In order to propitiate his companion, Ronald took one and smoked away in sulky silence. Mr. Foster settled himself deliberately in his chair, and fixing his clear eyes on Monteith, began to talk.
"What do you think of the position of affairs now?" he asked, knocking the ash off his cigarette.
"It seems to me that the game's up," retorted Ronald, sullenly.
"On the contrary, the game is just beginning to be interesting," said Foster, calmly.
"What do you mean?" asked Ronald, sitting up straight in his chair. "I tell you, Vassalla not only told me plainly that Mrs. Verschoyle was not on board, but showed me a letter in her own handwriting which confirmed it."
"Oh, yes," said Foster, satirically, "I must acknowledge it's all very beautifully arranged."