"And I have paid my debts," finished Leo. "So I have, and I can explain how I paid them; also my movements on that night." And he forthwith related to Pratt the story he had already told Mrs Gabriel. The man believed him much more readily than the woman. But then Pratt liked Leo, and Mrs Gabriel—as she had shown plainly—hated him with all the intensity of her stern and cruel nature.
"You say that Hale lent you the money?" asked Pratt.
"As I told you—in gold."
"And he now denies that he did so?"
"So Mrs Gabriel says. But I shall see for myself to-morrow."
Pratt reflected, staring into the fire. "It seems to be a conspiracy," he said slowly. "I wonder what his game is?"
Leo remembered that Sybil had also been uncomfortable when she heard that Hale intended to lend him the money. A thought flashed into his mind as Pratt spoke. "I believe that Hale is in love with Sibyl," said he.
"Humph! And his sister Edith is in love with you."
Leo coloured a little at this very direct remark. "I believe she is," said he, with an embarrassed laugh; "but I assure you, Pratt, the feeling is not reciprocal. The only woman I have ever loved, whom I shall ever love, is Sybil Tempest. And the course of our true love does not run smooth," he finished, with a sigh.
"A conspiracy," repeated Pratt, who was not paying much attention to what Leo was saying. "Yes! I believe it to be one. By lending you that money Hale hoped to get you into his power, so as to induce you to give up Sibyl to him and marry Edith."