When they were in the hall, he said, “Next Wednesday Randolph is to have a birthday party. I shall be glad to see you here.”
“Thank you, sir,” said Gilbert, gratefully. “I thank you all the more, because it shows that you believe in my innocence. But all the same, I would rather not accept. I shall still be resting under this false charge, and Mrs. Briggs evidently believes me guilty.”
“Women are apt to be prejudiced,” said Mr. Briggs, apologetically.
“Still the prejudice would make it unpleasant for me to come.”
“Perhaps you are right, Gilbert. At any rate, you are manly and independent, and I respect you for it. Come round to my office if anything turns up in which you need my advice.”
“Thank you, sir.”
When Mr. Briggs returned to the dining-room, his wife accosted him.
“Well, you had a secret conference with your promising protegé,” she said.
“Not secret. I am willing to tell you all that passed between us.”
“Well?”