'Wait! We must not go together. Give me five minutes to win clear; then follow.'
Bellarion considered him, and his eyes were very grave.
'But when my evasion is discovered ...' he was beginning.
Spigno impatiently broke in, explaining hurriedly.
'I am the last they will suspect. The others are all here to-night. But I pleaded urgent reasons why I could not remain. I made a pretence of departing; then hid below until all were asleep. They will be at each other's throats in the morning over this.' He smiled darkly in satisfaction of his cunning. 'I'll take the light. You know your way about this house better than I do. Tread softly when you come.'
He was turning to take up the lantern when Bellarion arrested him.
'You'll wait for me outside?'
'To what end? Nay, now. There is no purpose in that.'
'Let me come with you, then. If I should stumble in the dark they'll be upon me.'
'Take care that you do not.'