"There is surely no need to ask me such a question," I said.
He looked at me keenly.
"It is well, Roger Trevanion," he said. "I shall look on you as my ally and prepare accordingly. I can trust you, for you are a man, and love men. By the mass, they shall all know that Benet is more than a match for Otho! Good-night, Trevanion. I am ill pleased that you should have to spend another night in this hole, but it may not be helped. I will have my plans ready by to-morrow night,—and then——"
He strutted towards the door as he spoke, taking the key from his pocket meanwhile.
My heart gave a great leap, for a daring plan came into my mind. I had no time to consider its value, for it required instant action. I determined to put it to the test without delay.
"Wait a moment, Killigrew," I said. "There is just another matter before you go."
He turned around willingly. I could see he was in no haste to depart.
"You are sure our conversation hath not been heard?" I said, looking at him steadily.
"Do you think I am a fool?" he said vainly. "I went to the door to see that Otho had not ferreted us out. As for the guard, I told him to keep away until I came back."
My heart seemed to be in my mouth, for this fell in exactly with the plan that had been so suddenly born in my mind.