“You?� he said almost bitterly as he reached the woman’s side. “What are you doing here, Saidee?�
“I came after you.� Her face lifted under her hat. Her eyes were dark and purposeful. The tightening of her lips drew down the corners of her mouth.
“You came after me. Seems as if everybody’s coming after me. I’m going to take this boat.�
“No, you’re not! You’re going back, after—â€� She half turned and stared over the quay. “You’re going back after the cipher, Chester,â€� she said in a whisper. “You’re the only one who can get it. Come on with me.â€� Her gloved fingers pressed lightly on the sleeve of his coat. Her grip became firmer. “Please come,â€� she added hastily. “You haven’t any time to lose. You’re not going away—for my sake, Chester.â€�
He tore loose her grip with an angry jerk. “You,â€� he said, “are no better than the others—MacKeenon,
that hell-hound, and Sir Richard. Why didn’t you let me take the trick alone? I didn’t need any help. Now the job is queered—for good. I’m going to take this ship!â€�
“Oh, but Chester, you’re not. Remember your promise?�
“Promise?�
“Yes—to Inspector MacKeenon and Sir Richard.â€�
Fay stepped back a foot or more. He stared at the slight form of Saidee Isaacs as if he would crush her. His hands raised. His fingers clutched deep within his palms.