The baronet gazed at the boy wildly, as he clasped his child to his breast.
“You—you are not going to search?” he said hesitatingly.
“No, of course not. Pray forgive me. I’ll lead my men back to the boat at once.”
He raised his hat to Lady Graeme, an example followed by the master clumsily, as he backed away to the men, whom he faced round, the order was given, and they began to march back.
As they disappeared among the trees, Sir Risdon stooped down and kissed his child’s forehead passionately.
“Wife,” he said, in a deep, husky voice, “I never felt the misery and degradation of my position so cruelly before. Take her up to her room.”
“What are you going to do, Risdon?” exclaimed the lady.
“Follow that poor lad, and let him know the truth. I will not let him fail in his duty, to rescue that old scoundrel down below.”
“No, no! You must not. It would be too cruel,” whispered Lady Graeme wildly. “Think of the consequences.”
“I do,” said Sir Risdon sternly. “I should have behaved like what I have a right to be called—a gentleman.”