“Secret, sir?”
“Most particularly so,” said Prigson, turning away, while Van Teuten considered with himself whether it could really be the case, and whether, if so, he could profit by it.
Van Arlen came back, thanked the copying clerk, and recommended him to keep the matter secret.
Prigson stole a glance at Van Teuten, who was now convinced of the truth of his words.
“Do you want anything, Mr Van Teuten?” asked Van Arlen, for the man remained standing.
“May I venture to remind you of my request yesterday, sir? Perhaps you know that ... that I ... yesterday....”
“Yes, I know—nothing takes place in this department without my knowledge; but the Minister and I have agreed to take no notice of such ill-considered action on the part of a member of this department—provided, of course, it is never repeated.”
“No, sir, I give you my word it shall not. Oh, if you had only known what I felt this morning, when I thought of my wife and children searching for me! I couldn’t stand it any longer, sir, and I came back.”
“The wisest thing you could have done.”
“But that does not save me! I have obtained two days’ respite; but after that—I am hopelessly lost, if no help comes. If you will allow me, sir, I will go before the court to-morrow.”