Mabel studied the man who crossed the lawn. She remembered that she had seen him at Flora's wedding. His face was yellow and wrinkled, and although he wore light summer clothes made in the latest English fashion there was something foreign about him. He went towards the shrubbery with quick resolute steps.
"It's Peters, somebody Bob and Harry met abroad," Mabel remarked. "No doubt he's looking for them; they're on the terrace not far off."
"It's strange, but I feel I'd sooner he hadn't come," said Flora with a frown.
The man vanished behind the shrubs and a few moments afterwards Wyndham, lighting a cigarette on the terrace, dropped the match.
"Peters!" he exclaimed.
"Hallo!" said Marston, who turned and gave the newcomer an unfriendly glance. "We didn't expect you."
Peters sat down on a bench. "All the same, I have followed you along the coast for a week. Felt I needed a change after my adventures with the exploring party, which I dare say you heard about. Business was slack, and I had a dispute with my employers. I resolved to give up my post, caught a Royal Mail boat, and here I am."
"I don't see why you followed us," said Marston, coldly.
"Then I must explain. Some time since, I suggested your giving me a partnership. The plan has some extra advantages now."
"The advantages are not very obvious," Marston rejoined.