When fairly seated in his carriage he did not speak until they had
threaded the maze of wagons and reached clear ground. Even then he only
said, "Now for speed," and gave the horses their desire, until crowds
and business were left behind, and they were driving down a broad
avenue, lined on either side with stately yet quiet-looking homes. Then
he drew rein, and obliged the horses to walk; he had by this time
resolved on probing the wound, if there was one.
"I wish I knew just how much of a villain that man is." These were the
somewhat startling words which broke his silence.
"What man?" Yet the very tones of Gracie's voice indicated that she knew
of whom he was speaking.
"That man, Ellis! Professor, I think he is called. I have reason to be
very suspicious of him. By the way, Miss Gracie, I think he is an
acquaintance of yours. Have you confidence in him?"
How promptly and indignantly such a question would have received an
affirmative answer two months before! What should she say now?
"In what respect?" she faltered, more for the purpose of gaining time
than because she did not understand the question.
"Well, in any respect I am almost prepared to say. I have not the honor
of the man's acquaintance; but whatever I hear about him, or see in him,
I dislike and distrust.
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