"Be off, you scoundrel!" cried the Rector indignantly, and thrust him out.
Then he resumed his seat, and looked at Sophy.
"Well?" said he.
"Alan can explain," said she decisively.
"But if Lestrange goes to the police?"
"He won't," she said. "Cicero will stop that. Meanwhile I wait for Alan."
They talked on for a long time, but could come to no conclusion. Undoubtedly Alan had been near the vault on that night, had been in the hut, and had said nothing of these things to any one. It certainly looked suspicious, but Sophy insisted that her lover could and would explain. In spite of appearances, she had faith in Alan's honesty and in Alan's honor.
That same evening she dined with the Rector, without even Miss Vicky in attendance.
Towards the end of the meal, Alan walked in unexpectedly. He looked somewhat downcast, but there was no sign of fear in his bearing. After greetings had been exchanged he sat down with them. Neither the Rector nor Sophy was anxious to inform him of the accusation which had been brought against him.
"How went the business?" asked Mr. Phelps.