Robert did not hear the balance of the sentence, for the two parties arose and left the hotel, leaving him startled and shocked by the revelations of the wicked conspiracy which so seriously threatened the safety of his benefactress.
He lost no time in giving Mrs. Vernon information of what he had heard.
"You are quite sure of what you have told me?" she asked, with deep interest.
"Certainly, Mrs. Vernon. Why do you ask?"
"Because it seemed to me incredible that Frederic could be guilty of such base ingratitude. Why, he is even now in receipt of an income of three thousand dollars a year from me."
"It seems very ungrateful."
"It is very ungrateful," said the widow in an emphatic tone.
"Mrs. Vernon," said Robert, "your nephew mentioned as one evidence of your insanity your employing me as your secretary. If this is going to expose you to danger, perhaps you had better discharge me."
"Give me your hand, Robert," said Mrs. Vernon impulsively. "It is easy to see that you are a true friend, though in no way related to me."
"I hope to prove so."