"Level has managed it, somehow. She was abroad during the trial, you know. They have chiefly lived there since, Blanche seeing no English newspapers; and, of course, her acquaintances do not gratuitously speak to her about it. But I don't think it can be kept from her much longer."
"But where does she think I am—all this time?"
"She thinks you are in India with the regiment."
"I suppose he was in a fine way about it!"
"Level? Yes—naturally; and is still. He would have saved you, Tom, at any cost."
"As you would, and one or two more good friends; but, you see, I did not know what was coming upon me in time to ask them. It fell upon my head like a thunderbolt. Level is not a bad fellow at bottom."
"He is a downright good one—at least, that's my opinion of him."
We stood hand locked in hand at parting. "Where are you staying?" I whispered.
"Not far off. I've a lodging in the neighbourhood—one room."
"Fare you well, then, until to-morrow evening."