As if by mutual consent, they moved slowly along together, their faces turned back towards Edge Valley. Suddenly it occurred to Claud that he was due at Ardnacruan in six hours' time. There was nothing for it but to drive into Stanton and telegraph; no consideration should induce him to leave the scene of action in the present unforeseen and agitated aspect of affairs. He must implore Fowler to keep him a few days longer—which request that good fellow would grant, he knew how willingly.
As these thoughts crossed his mind, Henry approached them, his kind face furrowed and drawn with pain in a manner piteous to behold. Laying a hand on Mr. Cranmer's arm, he said, brokenly,
"Claud, my lad, you're not thinking of leaving me to-day?"
A rush of sympathy filled the young man's heart. Never before had Mr. Fowler made use of his Christian name.
"No, my dear fellow, of course I shall stay," he said, at once. "If only I thought I could be of any comfort to you——"
"You can—you are. But I am selfish—your friends will be expecting you——"
"I will drive into Stanton and send a telegram, if I may have the trap. Perhaps there might be some business I could do for you?"
"One or two things, lad, if you would. I feel mazed. I can't think clearly. Let me see——"
"I'll think for you," said Claud, slipping his arm into his; "and, first, I am going to take you straight home to have a glass of wine and some food. You are positively faint from exhaustion."
"You must come too," said Mr. Fowler, to Percivale.