“Well, if I get Mr. Sorley released can I take your word for——”
“Certainly you can take my word,” replied Fuller stiffly; “and my offer is such a sporting one, that it is not worth while committing it to paper.”
Bakche nodded. “I have always found that an English gentleman keeps his word, sir,” he said cordially, “so on those terms I shall hunt for the assassin of Grison.”
“Don’t you then believe that Sorley is guilty?” asked Alan suddenly.
“On those terms I shall hunt for the assassin of Grison,” said Bakche once more. “I decline to speak further, and——” he stopped short as Miss Grison re-entered the room and moved towards the door. “We can talk further, Mr. Fuller, when you are more at leisure,” was his final remark as he stole out and closed the door swiftly behind him.
“What is that?” asked Miss Grison with a searching look at Alan.
“Bakche wants the peacock and the jewels, as he says that they rightfully belong to him. He wishes me to help him.”
“Will you do so?”
“No. They belong to Miss Inderwick.”
“And you intend to marry Miss Inderwick,” said the woman with a hard laugh; “well you are wise. But Mr. Bakche is the rightful owner.”