“I imagined others might argue that a draftsman’s pay was small,” Jasper rejoined, and gave Alan an ironical smile. “You agree it’s possible?”
Alan’s face got red, for he knew Mrs. Carson would argue like that.
“I’d bet all I’ve got on Kit’s honesty!”
“Thank you,” said Kit, and gave him a grateful look.
“Well, I expect you have told us all you think it useful for us to know,” Jasper remarked with some dryness. “In the morning I start for a steelworks on the coast, and if you like I’ll look up Meredith. I might induce him to make a fresh inquiry.”
Kit pondered. He had declared his innocence, and since he had engaged to see Mabel out, he must be satisfied. A fresh inquiry might put Colvin on Blake’s track. He dared not risk it, but the strain was getting hard, and he was bothered by Jasper’s searching glance.
“If you want to see Meredith, I am willing; but if he agreed to take me back, I would not go.”
“Then I suppose you have a plan?”
“That is so,” said Kit, and turned to Alan. “You are kind and trust me, but others will not, and I mustn’t stay at Netherhall.”
“Netherhall’s your home, Kit. You must stay here until you get a post.”