CHAPTER XV
A CLUE AT LAST
Immediately Forrest had made his dramatic announcement, I glanced at Evie, for in view of the apprehension she had exhibited earlier in the evening, I was just a little doubtful as to whether she would take kindly to the renewal of my attempts to catch the Pirate. To my satisfaction, she exhibited no signs of trepidation, if she did not appear altogether delighted that I was to have another opportunity of distinguishing myself. In fact as soon as the detective had followed Colonel Maitland from the room, she told me that she was glad.
"I don't fear for you a scrap, Jim. At least not much," she said. "I know you won't do anything foolish, for my sake."
I interrupted with, "Nor for my own."
"And do you know," she continued, "I have a queer sort of impression that when the Pirate is captured, this horrible depression which has been hanging over me will disappear altogether."
"Then captured he must be without delay," I said.
"Though I don't see how Mannering will be affected thereby."
"I am not so sure about that," said Evie.