His meaning was apparent from the wry face she pulled at his remark.

He did not tell her how he had, while she had been dancing and flirting that night, made his way back to the castle, or how he had compelled Gabrielle to go forth and speak with him.

His action had been a bold one, yet its result had confirmed certain vague suspicions he had held.
Well he knew that the girl hated him heartily, and that she was in possession of a certain secret of his--one which might easily result in his downfall.

He feared to tell the truth to this woman before him, for if he did so she would certainly withdraw from all association with him in order to save herself.
The key to the whole situation was held by that slim, sweet-faced girl, so devoted to her afflicted father.

He was not quite certain as to the actual extent of her knowledge, and was as yet undecided as to what attitude he should adopt towards her.