"Oh, I don't say that I know anything for certain, sir, but I have my suspicions, you know."
"Oh, have you? Who is it you suspect?"
"I shall tell you when you relate to me all details unknown to my mother." Hendle rose again restlessly, and walking up and down, thought deeply. When he paused again before Kit, he had made up his mind to be frank. "I know you are my friend," he said earnestly, "and I know that you are honest and true."
"I am all that," rejoined Beatson emphatically, "especially when there is anything to be done for you, sir. I shall never forget your kindness to me. Anything you say will go no further than Sophy."
"Why Sophy?" asked Rupert suspiciously.
"Because she knows so much that she may as well know all. And her suspicions point in the direction that mine do. She is now with Miss Mallien----"
Rupert uttered an ejaculation. "Not reporting the conversation with your mother, I hope," he said hastily.
"Yes," answered Kit bluntly; "it is better for Sophy to speak to Miss Mallien than to Mr. Mallien."
"Does she--do you--suspect my cousin?"
"No! But Sophy will explain when she brings Miss Mallien here. We arranged to meet here shortly, Mr. Hendle"; and Kit glanced at his watch. "I dare say the two ladies will be here in an hour."