"I thought you were friendly to--"
"To the Berrys? Not much. I've chucked them. They have been making use of me, and have been trying to get Lancaster hanged--"
"And are trying," interrupted Eustace, quickly. "It's all right, Mildred. So sure am I of Denham that I intend to trust him."
"You need have no fear," said Denham, colouring with pleasure. "I'm straight all through. Don't you trust me, Miss Starth?"
Mildred looked at him with her innocent eyes, and he met her gaze without dropping his own.
"Yes, I trust you," she said, "thoroughly."
"In that case," said Eustace, rubbing his hands, "Mr. Denham can be present when Tamaroo explains to Frank."
"Explains what?"
"The whole business of the conspiracy. It concerns Frank, and also you, Denham. Tamaroo says that your father was the partner of the late Mr. Lancaster."
"I've heard him mention Lancaster's name," said Natty, slowly; "but Tamaroo never came along."