“It is extremely unlikely, for I don’t see how they can get the evidence. Indeed, I am not certain that the Baron expects to succeed. He merely wishes to blacken my character and close my mouth. There is the Amanti deal and this coming on the top of it will be likely to make the public believe that I am not the kind of man who would be interested in the Congo, merely out of consideration for the welfare of the natives. And the public would have been right in thinking that a little time ago. In fact I myself find it difficult to know what is my real motive. A good deal to do with it is a natural love of a fight.”
“You are not just to yourself, for I am convinced that you are as desirous as I am to help the natives. Don’t think me impertinent if I say that I have noticed changes in your character. When we first met you were a hard man and devoid of human sympathy. You have allowed me to see something of the real Gaunt and I understand the reason of your change. But do you think you were wise to let your wife know of our plans?” Drake asked quietly.
“Why do you ask that question?” Gaunt cried impatiently.
“Remember her first remark. She wished to know if you yourself would go. Naturally she imagines that there would be danger in such an expedition and she loves you; need I say more?”
“My wife will not try to persuade me to stay at home,” Gaunt answered grimly.
“I am not so sure of that.”
“We won’t discuss it,” Gaunt broke in quickly. “Last night I did not sleep very well and in my mind I went over everything I had done since we first met. Tell me honestly, have I so far carried out my vow?”
“Yes. You have done as much as mortal man could do. I have been afraid, at times, that you had lost sight of that motive, and were acting from a wish to get the better of the Baron. May I tell you what is in my mind?” Drake asked hesitatingly.
“I prefer absolute frankness.”
“I have been afraid that now you have won your wife’s love you would weaken in your purpose. You have obtained all that you desired, and I thought that the temptation to enjoy your happiness would be too great.”