So Stephen bent his steps in the direction of his step-mother's humble home.
When his knock was heard, Paul said:
"Mother, that's Stephen's knock. Don't let him know where I am. I'll hide in the next room, and hear what he has to say. I suspect he had something to do with the attempt that was made to get me into trouble to-day. Perhaps I can find out."
"If he asks me if you are here, what am I to say? I must tell the truth."
Paul whispered a few words in his mother's ear, and then hastily retreated into the inner room, while Mrs. Palmer went forward and opened the door to her step-son.
CHAPTER XVI.
AN UNWELCOME APPEARANCE.
"Good-evening, mamma!" said Stephen, airily, as he stepped over the threshold, and entered the room.
"Good-evening, Stephen," said Mrs. Palmer, soberly.