“What do you mean, Warburton? Why do you look at me like that? Why do you fence with me? In plain words, what do you mean?”

Warburton rose, clenching his hands.

“I know you, Master Richard, for what you are!”

“Ah!” Carstares flung out his hand as if to ward off a blow.

Another tense silence. With a great effort Warburton controlled himself, and once more the mask of impassivity seemed to descend upon him. After that one tortured cry Richard became calm again. He sat down; on his face a look almost of relief, coming after a great strain.

“You learnt the truth⁠ ⁠… from John. He⁠ ⁠… will expose me?”

“No, sir. I have not learnt it from him. And he will never expose you.”