All that day he wondered what amount of truth there was in the assertion of Darrel that Frank was in love with Mildred. Eustace could not bring himself to believe that Frank would act basely towards him, and make love during his absence. "He knows that I adore Mildred," soliloquised Eustace as he paced his rough lawn, "and to try to get her to himself would be a base thing to do. I have helped him. He certainly would not betray me. I swear by Frank."
Nevertheless, in spite of these brave words, he caught himself frowning at the thought, and finally made up his mind to see Mildred and learn the worst. He was aware that she liked him, but that into their bargain no love had entered. If she really loved Frank, and the young man had acted honourably, why then-- "But it's impossible--impossible!" groaned Jarman, clenching his hand. "He would not treat me in such a way."
Troubled in this fashion he presented himself at Rose Cottage, looking unlike his usual self. Mildred was in the garden watching the sunset, and was walking towards the summerhouse when she heard him call her name. Turning with a cry of alarm, she came swiftly towards him, holding out both hands.
"Eustace, I'm so glad you have come! I was sorry that I could not see you last night. Why did you not come earlier?"
"I was busy," he said, evasively, and looked into her eyes. "Mildred, why were you alarmed when I called you?"
She faltered. "I thought it might be Darrel," she said faintly. "But he would not call you by your Christian name?"
Mildred blazed up. "I'd like to see him dare!" she said. "But he has insolence enough for anything. He persecutes me!"
"Oh, does he!" cried Jarman, angrily. "Then I'll made short work of him. You see if I don't. I'll--"
"Do nothing--do nothing!" she panted, catching his hands. "He is a dangerous man. He knows too much."
"About what I don't understand." She turned red, and her hands dropped. "Mr. O'Neil," she said, in a low voice, then covered her face.