“Where are you going, John?” she whispered hoarsely.
A speaker had just sat down, and Gaunt was making his way rapidly to the platform which he quietly mounted and turned to face the audience.
“I am John Gaunt and I wish to speak,” he said in a clear ringing voice.
A murmur arose, and the chairman whispered to those near him.
What could this millionaire wish to say to them? This man whose gold had the taint of blood.
Lady Mildred’s breath came quickly and the time seemed interminable as she waited for her husband to continue his speech.
Edward Drake watched the scene with a feeling of intense excitement, for he had no idea what Gaunt was about to say. It was but a few hours ago that the subject of their presence had been discussed. The meeting had attracted a good deal of attention and it chanced that during the afternoon, Drake was reading an article in the Times when Gaunt entered the library.
“Mr. Gaunt, I think that the time has come for action,” Drake cried eagerly. “Have you read this leader about the Congo?”
“I have just glanced at it. Isn’t there a meeting of some sort to-night?” was the careless answer.
“Yes, and I think you ought to be present. A fortnight has passed and we have done nothing,” Drake replied energetically.