"Because Ashington will certainly share my fate—whatever that may be," said Tiel grimly. "He knows that; in fact he knows that I have probably taken steps to ensure that happening, in case there might be any loophole for him."
"But can't a man turn King's evidence (isn't that the term?) and get pardoned?" asked Eileen.
"Not a naval officer," said Tiel.
"No," I agreed. "I must say that for the British Navy. An officer would have no more chance of pardon in it than in our own navy."
"Well," smiled Eileen, "I feel relieved! Don't you, Mr Belke?"
"Yes," I said, "I begin to understand the whole situation more clearly. I pray that suspicion may not begin!"
"In that case," said Tiel, "you realise now, perhaps, why we have to keep up acting, whether any one is watching us or not."
"Yes," I admitted, "I begin to see your reasons a little better. But why didn't you tell me all this before?"
"All what?"
"Well—about Ashington, for instance."