CHAPTER XVII
CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE
In front of the veranda, and to the right of the brick walk, the latticework of a small summerhouse could be discerned through a maze of shrubbery and weeds. No path led toward it, yet we made the difficult passage, by pressing aside the foliage, and discovered a rustic seat within, where we were completely screened from observation. I felt the slight trembling of the woman's form from suppressed excitement, but the adventure with Coombs had only served to stiffen my nerves. With flushed cheeks, and eyes bright and questioning, she could scarcely wait for me to begin.
"Now tell me; surely we are out of sight and hearing."
"I do not think I shall ever be entirely assured as to that until I know more of our exact situation," I replied, speaking cautiously. "We may have been seen coming here, and those weeds would easily conceal an eavesdropper. The truth is, I have gained very little information of value, and am as mystified as ever. If that fellow told the truth it is beyond my understanding."
"But you are sure he knows nothing of those men who sent you here?"
"Yes, he had never heard of Vail, and all he knew about Neale was that name was signed to the orders of the new overseer."
"Under what authority is the man acting?"
I hesitated, not venturing to look at her, conscious of a personal feeling which I must conceal.
"Do you not wish to tell me?"