A hand was laid sharply on his shoulder. He stood transfixed.
Harry Venniker, pale as a ghost, stood at his side.
For nearly a minute they remained by the water’s edge, the one turning half round with his face towards the lake, the other holding him back.
At last Harry Venniker whispered hoarsely, ‘Come away.’
‘How did you come here?’ was the reply, spoken also in a whisper.
‘I could not sleep,’ said Harry, rapidly. ‘I was sitting up. I heard you get up and open the door and go downstairs. As you did not come back, I went to your room. I found this lying on the table. It told me where you would be. I ran after you. You did not hear my steps; the wind was so loud. I came up just as you threw your coat into the water. I waited and watched. Come away.’
Not a word passed between them as they returned to the Hall.
Gerald flung himself again upon his bed. He hid his face in his hands, sobbing convulsively.
Harry Venniker sat by his side until morning broke. He was calmer then.
Fearing that his presence in the room might excite observation, Harry bent over his unhappy friend and said, ‘I think I must go now. But, Gerald, you must give me your word that you will not do this dreadful thing.’