“A man’s business is his own,” she replied with spirit, “but I do not like anyone who goes under false pretences.”
Fletcher’s usual self-control was deserting him. He saw the interest which this girl might have had in him gone for ever.
“False pretences,” he repeated “and what about him? Who is he? For all you know he may be the criminal we are after.”
“If you are going to say things like that,” she replied, “perhaps we had better say good-day,” and she turned away without another word.
Halley gave one glance at the angry detective and then followed her.
“All right, my boy!” said Fletcher to the departing couple. “You’ve scored one point, but wait until I have got a little more information and then we will see what opinion Miss Ena will hold of you!”
Ena walked in silence for a while.
“How horrible,” she said at length. “That man came down with me by the same train, and scratched up an acquaintance. I suppose he was trying to ‘pump’ me, as they say; that is why he came the other night, with the police sergeant. I will never trust anyone again.”
Halley looked at her for a moment.
“Did I not tell you not to make friends at sight?” he said bitterly, but she turned quickly to him.