Marston started. He remembered that it was at Heckett’s he had first seen Ruth after his return.
‘What do you know of Heckett?’ he said, assuming a careless tone.
‘Nothing,’ answered Ruth; ‘except that he and some associates of his wish you no good. There is some scheme afloat with regard to a cheque and your going to a bank. Mr. Marston, if you are linked with these men in any scheme, they will betray you. For your own sake, beware of them!’
‘Good gracious, Ruth! what do you mean?’
‘I don’t know,’ exclaimed Ruth, feeling hot and confused. ‘I’m sorry I came. It was wicked and foolish of me. But’—her voice faltered—‘for the sake of old times, believing you were in danger, I tried to save you. You know best, perhaps, what you have to fear.’
Ruth turned to go. Marston put out his hand.
‘Ruth, from the bottom of my heart I thank you. But I am in no danger. It is most probable these rascals have obtained possession of a cheque which was in a pocket-book I lost, and your informant, whoever it may be, has overheard their conversation about that.’
Ruth flushed scarlet, and a sense of shame camc suddenly upon her. She saw it all now. Marston was right, and Gertie had mistaken what she had heard. Ruth had placed herself in a false position.
She walked towards the door, and would have gone out at once, but Marston detained her.
Ruth, is there no hope for me? I have never ceased to love you, and I have bitterly atoned for the past. If I prove to you and to the world that I am free from reproach, that I am worthy your love, may I not see you again?’