"It is too late now," said Robin with something of a sob, "you'll never trust me again."
"Never," replied Herrick calmly, "I have not yet got to the bottom of this business. But I believe you are the tool rather than the accomplice of this Mexican. However I will deal with him. You go to London, and hold yourself in readiness for my orders."
"I'll be even with Santiago yet for his treachery," said Robin rising.
"That you can settle between yourselves. Hullo, don't go yet. Sign this paper. I have written down all you told me."
"I won't sign."
"You will, and at once. I will be the witness. If you don't I will not protect you in any way."
"You won't let me get into trouble?" said Joyce taking the pen.
"Not if what you have told me is true. Sign."
So Joyce signed and Herrick witnessed the document. The doctor placed it in his pocket and then ordered a trap from Napper. After Joyce had paid his bill, the doctor drove him to Beorminster. The five o'clock train was on the point of departure, but he just managed to catch it. As he flung himself into a carriage he held out his hand to Herrick.
"No," replied Jim coldly, "we have done with all that. And no tricks, or you'll get the worst of it."