“It was a surprise. I don’t think you were tactful in making so much of the affair.”
“One has to take a risk, and if I’d waited until I had Aynsley alone and then made him tell me what he knew, it might have looked significant. In a general way, the thing you’re willing to talk over in public isn’t of much account.”
“There’s truth in that,” Osborne assented.
“I have no wish to set the boy thinking,” Clay resumed. “I take it we’re both anxious that our children should believe the best of us.”
His glance was searching, and Osborne made a sign of agreement.
“What are you going to do about it?”
“Trace the sloop. We don’t want mysterious strangers prospecting round that reef. When I’ve found out all I can, the fellows will have to be bought or beaten off.”
“Very well; I leave the thing to you.”
“Rather out of your line now?” Clay suggested with an ironical smile. “However, I will admit you deserve some sympathy.”
“For that matter, we both need it. You’re no better off than I am.”