Sir William realised that every instant was precious.
"Pateley," he said, "look here. If you could wait a day or two longer...."
"Do you mean," said Pateley, "that if I were to wait there would be a chance of your being able to do something?"
"I don't know," said Sir William, "I am not sure, but there might be a turn in public affairs; the panic might be over, there might be a chance of peace."
"If that is all," Pateley said quite definitely, "I am afraid that prospect is not enough to build upon. I can't afford to wait on that security."
Sir William got up and spoke quickly with a visible effort.
"Look here, listen... I have a reason for thinking that is the way things may be turning."
"A reason?" said Pateley, turning round upon him.
"Yes," said Sir William.