“In the lane by the side.”
“That’s the place,” said the foreman, in a disappointed tone. “That theer window. Was he by hissen?”
“Yes, he was quite alone,” said Richard, flinching under this cross-examination.
“And what was you a-doing theer, Maister Richard, at that time?” said the foreman, curiously.
“I—I—” faltered Richard, thoroughly taken aback by the sudden question; “I was walking down to go into the counting-house, with a sort of idea that I should like to see if the works were all right.”
“Ho!” said the foreman, shortly; and just then the eyes of the young men met, and it seemed to Richard that there was written in those of the vicar the one word, “Liar!”
“Did you speak, sir?” said Richard, blanching, and then speaking hotly.
“No, Mr Glaire, I did not speak, but I will, for I should like to say that from what I have seen of that young man Podmore, I do not think he is one who would be guilty of such a dastardly action.”
“How can you know?” said Richard, flushing up. “You only came to the town yesterday.”
“True,” said the vicar; “but this young man was my guide here, and I had some talk with him.”