d of the Lecture Room, he saw that only some
dozen people were standing about. No sooner had he surveyed them than
he became aware that Northway was sauntering directly towards the place
where Glazzard stood; Mrs. Wade remained in the doorway. Unperceived,
the informer came close behind his confederate and spoke quietly.

Glazzard turned as if some one had struck him.

It was forcible evidence, confirmed moreover by the faces of the two
men as they exchanged a few words.

Seeing Northway retire, Quarrier said to Mrs. Wade:

"Please to go away. You have done your part."

With a look of humble entreaty, she obeyed him. Denzil, already
observed by Glazzard, stepped forward.

"Do you know that man?" he asked, pointing to Northway, who affected a
study of some neighbouring work of art.

"I have met him," was the subdued answer.

It was necessary to speak so that attention should not be drawn hither.
Though profoundly agitated, Quarrier controlled himself sufficiently to
use a very low tone.

"He has told an incredible story, Glazzard. I sha'n't believe it unless
it is confirmed by your own lips."

"I have no doubt he has told the truth."

Denzil drew back.

"But do you know _what_ he has said?"

"I guess from the way he addressed me--as Mr. Marks."

Glazzard was deadly pale, but he smiled persistently, and with an
expression of relief.

"You--_you_--betrayed us to him?"

"I did."

Each could hear the other's breathing.

"Why did you do that?" asked Denzil, the excess of his astonishment
declaring itself in a tone which would have suited some every-day
inquiry. He could not speak otherwise.

"I can't tell you why I did it. I'm not sure that I quite understand
now. I did it, and there's no more to be said."

Denzil turned away, and stood with his eyes fixed on the ground. A
minute passed, and Glazzard's voice again sounded close to him.

"Quarrier, you can't forgive me, and I don't wish you to. But may I
hope that you won't let my wife know of it?"

"You are safe from me," answered Denzil, barely glancing at him, and at
once walked away.

He returned to the vestibule, descended the stairs, went out into the
court. There, aside from vehicles and people, he let his thoughts have
their way. Presently they summed themselves in a sentence which
involuntarily he spoke aloud:

"Now I understand the necessity for social law!"

THE END

End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Denzil