"I may not be so much in the dark as you think," said the other.
"Then why did you ask me to assist you?" retorted Garth, sharply. "See here, Fanks, tell you all that I know if you will promise to keep me posted up concerning the progress of the case."
Fanks twisted his ring and reflected.
"I agree," he said briefly, "but you must not meddle--unless I tell you to do so."
"Agreed!" And the pair shook hands on the bargain.
"And now," said Fanks, grimly, "that letter, if you please."
After a moment's hesitation Garth handed it over. He had a great respect for the mental capacity of his friend, and on the whole he judged it advisable to carry out the agreement which had been concluded.
"Though I would send that letter if I were you," he expostulated; "Hersham has----"
"I know what Hersham has," interrupted Fanks; "but I want him to see me, not you. Wait till we know how we stand at the present moment. Come into the smoking-room and answer my questions."
"What a peremptory chap you are," grumbled Garth, as they left the room. "Evidently you don't confide in my discretion."