"He knows more than is desirable," rejoined the baronet. "Some one has evidently informed him that I have acted as the young man's guardian."
"Mr. Marriott cannot have betrayed your confidence?" remarked Father Jerome.
"I do not think so," rejoined the other.
"Who else can have given the information?" observed the priest. "Have you no suspicion?"
"Ha! a light flashes upon me. Should it be so!—though I would fain hope not—the meeting would be doubly dangerous—for she is to be present."
"I can set your mind at rest. She knows nothing more than this one fact."
"But that may lead to a discovery of all the rest," cried Sir Richard.
"Not since you are prepared. 'Tis a pity the packet was left with her?"
"'Twas a great error, I admit. But I will not commit another imprudent act. I will not be interrogated by the prince."
"Again I say you had better brave it out than fly—and fly you must if you neglect to obey the prince's commands. Your disappearance will give rise to unpleasant suspicions."