A light began to glimmer in Stephen's mind, and gradually the truth began to dawn upon him.
"In her presence, I presume, the conversation was more or less general. He alluded to the scheme which was uppermost in his mind only secretly with you?"
"Thet wuz all, sir."
He knew well enough now what his friend meant, though nothing of the details, and from the uncertainty and the apprehension of his manner he judged that there was much of which he was still in the dark. Anderson had come to Jim with the girl to secure an advantageous introduction; after that he had no immediate need of her company. He was of the opinion that she was entirely ignorant of the man's character and motives, although she was unwittingly an important instrument in his hands. Stephen longed to reveal the truth of the situation to her, but dared not; at any rate, thought he, not until the proper time came. Then she would be enabled to appreciate for herself the trend of the whole affair.
"Can I ask ye," inquired Jim in a voice that indicated timidity, "will this affair—I mean, d'ye s'ppse this thing 'll bring us t' eny harm, 'r thet they'll be a disorder?"
Stephen's eyes danced with excitement.
"Do they observe the courtesies of the law? If it comes to the worst, yes,—there will be a scene and the grandest scene in which a villain ever participated."
Marjorie entering through the gate posts immediately commanded their attention.
III
"I should be happy to be permitted to accompany you home," Stephen whispered to her at a moment when they chanced to be alone.