“What for?”

“To get her to run to the Peacock, and tell them to bring some dinner and a bottle of Bass. You can eat something?”

“Bring dinner—here?” gasped Stratton.

“Yes. I have had nothing since early breakfast.”

“You cannot have it here,” said Stratton, making an effort, and speaking firmly. “I am better and calmer now. After a night’s rest I shall be myself again.”

“I hope so,” said Guest quietly.

“So go now, there’s a good fellow. I’ll explain everything to you some day, and I shall be far better alone.”

“Yes; you are fit to trust!”

“You need not sneer. You think I shall make some insane attempt upon my life.”

Guest looked at him fixedly.