"But would it be helping? I think you're just trying to make an excuse to get us out of this place."
"Nonsense! I had it in mind before I ever came to-night. It's absolutely necessary to the success of my plans!"
"You're just trying to get around me."
"I'm not! How could I trust anybody else with the secret of that vault?"
Jack had struck the right line at last. She could not resist this subtle form of flattery, and in the end she gave in. "But I warn you I'll make that house pay," she said.
"Oh, go as far as you like."
They discussed their arrangements in detail. Once she had consented, Kate entered into it with a will. In the midst of their talk a clock struck one.
"Half-past nine!" said Jack, starting up. "I clean forgot Bobo downstairs!"
"Why didn't you bring him up?" said Kate. "I'm curious to see him."
"Thanks," said Jack, "but for once I wanted to play first fiddle myself."