“Yes,” answered Joy thoughtfully. “I can trust him—now. As you have seen he is a very sick man, and in spite of the way in which he raved in the cabin, I believe that now he is greatly concerned for my safety, and yours. Did you notice the sudden change in his attitude after I had mentioned Adrian Rayner’s name?”
“Yes, he was startled. His manner completely altered. Something struck him with your mention of the name. I wonder what it was?”
“I do not know. I cannot even guess, but no doubt we shall hear presently. There is nothing for us to do but to return to the cabin.”
Her foster-sister nodded thoughtfully. “Yes, we shall have to do that. We can do nothing else.” She paused a moment and then asked, “You don’t think George’s son has deserted us, Joy?”
“No!” answered Joy emphatically. “Something has driven him away. But he will return—if he can. I am sure of that!”
They turned in their tracks and slowly retraced their way to the cabin. Dick Bracknell was standing at the door, evidently waiting for them, and as they approached he flashed a look of inquiry at Joy. She shook her head.
“No,” she said quietly. “There is nothing to be seen anywhere.”
“I am sorry,” answered Bracknell simply. “You must wait here. Perhaps your other man will return, or if he does not my man may.”
He opened the door and held it for them to pass in.