"But you said that Mr. Maunders and Mr. Hest were villains," she persisted. "Ah, I spoke somewhat harshly, being a trifle excited. They have treated me and my friend here very badly and we came for redress. How their consciences smote them you can judge from the fact of their flight. You will possibly never see them again. But if they do chance to return you must wire to me at once to the Athenian Club, Pall Mall."
"I don't like these hints and suggestions of evil, sir," said Gail, restlessly, "and certainly I should never think of telegraphing to you unless Mr. Maunders and Mr. Hest give me leave. And why, sir, should they not return?"
"Don't seek to know any more, Mr. Gail, but do as you are told," said Vernon in a peremptory tone, "and also it will be wise if you and your wife hold your tongues over what has happened and stop the servant from talking."
"Suppose we don't?" demanded Mrs. Gail aggressively.
"In that case you will get into trouble."
"How dare you--how dare----"
"See here!" Colonel Towton rose angrily. "We have reason to believe that these men are connected with The Spider."
Mrs. Gail shrieked and the Professor turned pale. Both knew that terrible name which was so freely mentioned in the papers. "Do you mean to say----"
"We say nothing," said Vernon sharply, "and my friend here has perhaps said too much. But it is as well that you should know the necessity of keeping silent tongues in your heads."
"We, knowing nothing of these matters, cannot be expected to----"