Ulick was astonished, and wondered if Eli really had any grounds for suspicion. He would think the matter over on his return to London; it might possibly afford him some clue. If he found out the real culprit he would be able to judge what was best to be done. It was no use questioning Eli further.
"Old Honeysuckle looks in rather a bad way," he said, changing the subject, for which Eli was very thankful.
Eli explained the situation to him, and Ulick, looking at his watch, said—
"It only wants half an hour to midnight; we have been talking a long time. I'll stay with you and see it through. There is no danger of the Squire suddenly coming down?"
"Not at this hour, I am glad to say. He thinks there is no cause for anxiety. But will you not come into the house? Mrs. Marley has gone to bed, and we shall not be disturbed," said Eli.
"Let us remain here until it is all over," replied Ulick, and he sat down on the straw.
"Take this chair," said Eli.
"I prefer to be here, it is more comfortable."
It was a quiet night, and the light wind was blowing from the village of Helton.
Honeysuckle was in considerable pain, and they both watched her with anxious eyes, knowing what a vast difference a few minutes would make.