Purvis had explained his visit to Mr. Castlemaine in a very few words, then he said, "A funny fellow—Leicester, isn't he?"
"He is no ordinary man," said Mr. Castlemaine. "He should have a great career."
Purvis shook his head.
"You do not think so?"
"I do not deny his cleverness," said Purvis. "That is generally recognised; but—but——"
"Oh, I take but little notice of his joking," said John Castlemaine, "for he was joking."
"No, he was not joking."
"You mean that——"
"He believes in nothing—neither in God nor man. He does not believe in the commonplaces of Christian morality. He makes a boast of his atheism."
Mr. Castlemaine looked serious.