Ned opened his purse, and took out his note, removing the outer covering without being observed. Then, watching his chance when he was left alone with Mr Martin, he approached him, and said—
“I think this is for you, Mr Martin. I got it from a gentleman on the veldt three nights ago.”
“Thanks.”
Mr Martin opened the note carelessly; then, as soon as he saw the contents, he started, and crushed it quickly into his pocket.
“You have not shown any one this note, have you?”
“No; I was told to be careful about it, and give it only to you, sir.”
“What kind of man was it who gave it to you?”
“It was the Honourable Cec—”
“Hush! I am satisfied. It is all right. Do not say any more.”
He went over to the fire, and after reading it carefully, he put it amongst the logs, and watched it burn; then he stirred the ashes with his foot, and turned once more to Ned.