He pointed to the massive stone lying on the table, and then said, smiling:
“I was just in time to save myself.”
“Good Heavens! Was he dangerous for long?”
“For long enough. We had a short struggle, and he went down with a crash. One moment he was tremendously strong; the next helpless as a child, and he has been like that ever since. Our plans must be altered.”
“No, not now,” said Brettison decisively. “The man has been over-excited to-day. Your presence seems to have roused up feelings that have been asleep. I ought not to have left you alone with him. Come, it is getting late. We have very few minutes to spare.”
“Then you mean to go?”
“Yes, I mean to go. You shall see us to the station. I have no fear of him; he will be calm enough with me.”
“Very well,” said Stratton, “anything to get him away from here. If he keeps on turning violent he must be placed under restraint.” Stratton opened the door, placed his travelling bag outside, and came back.
“What does that mean?” said Brettison, pointing to the bag.
“Mine. You do not suppose I shall let you go alone.”