"'Mr. Blake is safe in bed before this, Miss Forrest—probably asleep,' was his reply."
"Miss Forrest!" I cried. "Did she go to him?"
"Evidently," replied Tom. "Indeed, I found out afterwards that she had been very anxious. She had seen you go out, and watched Voltaire and me, who went in search of you, and would not retire until she knew your whereabouts."
"Well, what then?"
"I went into the room. I could not stand and play the eavesdropper. Miss
Forrest seemed very glad to see me, and said eagerly—
"'I came down to ask whether you had found Mr. Blake. I am glad he is safe.'
"'And he must remain safe!' cried Voltaire.
"'Why?' asked Miss Forrest.
"'Miss Forrest,' cried Voltaire, vehemently, 'you have been deprived of your rest to-night in order to know about one who is guilty of what you English people call a foul crime, but which I call a deed that must be avenged.'
"'I do not understand you.'