I would rather speak to you alone, in confidence if I may, without reference to any duty of anyone to anyone, except mine to Scotland Yard." "Of course! of course!" I answered mechanically, my heart sinking, I did not know why.

"Be quite frank with me.

I assure you of my confidence." "Thank you, sir.

I take it that what I say is not to pass beyond you--not to anyone.

Not to Miss Trelawny herself, or even to Mr.
Trelawny when he becomes well again." "Certainly, if you make it a condition!" I said a little more stiffly.
The man recognised the change in my voice or manner, and said apologetically: "Excuse me, sir, but I am going outside my duty in speaking to you at all on the subject.