“There is occasion for it.”
“We certainly prefer the justice to attend here,” said Peele, “but why not send one of these watchmen?”
“They may not be as persuasive as a man of dignified bearing,” returned Eliot, bowing slightly.
“Well, Peele,” said Tamworth, “a word with you.”
He drew him and Shakespere into the distant alcove.
“Is the situation serious?” asked Peele.
“Not so far as immediate results are concerned, unless the justice knows and recognizes Marlowe. It is evident that Eliot never saw him before, but thinks he fills Bame’s description of the man who was with him in St. Olave. All that he can demand now is an affidavit. They have no power to take him into custody.”
“Unless by unlawful force,” suggested Peele.
“True,” answered Tamworth, “but the danger lies in the future. The order, upon Eliot’s motion for a new trial, may be made to-morrow, and Marlowe would be detained as a witness. Further concealment here, except for the night, is hopeless. There is no safety for him in London. He must leave for the continent before twenty-four hours have passed over his head.”
“And now, what?” asked Peele.