He shrugged. "The time for subterfuge is past." And then, taking her hand again, "I shall go at once. But whatever happens I want you to know that I shall never forget what you have done for me."
"It is nothing. Now go, please."
He bowed and preceded her into the hallway. As they passed the office the door was open and Renwick glanced in. The magistrate was there and another man, talking to Colonel Bohratt, all of them unaware of the patient in the darker hallway looking at them. Renwick started, and then gazed again at the third man leaning over the table facing him. His figure seemed familiar, his bowing and gestures more so, and yet for a second Renwick could not place him. And then the man smiled, showing a gold tooth which caught the reflection of the electric light upon the table. A gold tooth——
Nurse Roth was regarding Renwick who glanced at the open door behind him and then at Nurse Roth. The pause was momentous. Renwick quickly recovered his poise and went on a few steps.
"They wish to see me—in the office?" he asked in a whisper.
"In your room, please. I shall tell them that you are waiting."
"Thanks, again," said Renwick abruptly, with outstretched hand, "and good-by."
"Good-by?" she asked in alarm.
He smiled over the shoulder as he went up the stairs.
"I think I shall exchange the hospital—for the jail."