His previous idea recurred to him with renewed force now, and several things in the young man's behaviour, hitherto disregarded, became suddenly charged with significance.

Miss Nugent looked on with an air of cynical interest.
"Better not run any risk," said Hardy, gravely.

"I shall be very pleased to see Miss Nugent home, if she will allow me." "What is the matter with it ?" inquired Miss Nugent, looking him full in the face.
Hardy hesitated.

Diplomacy, he told himself, was one thing; lying another.

He passed the question on to the rather badly used Mr.Wilks.
"Matter with it ?" repeated that gentleman, glaring at him reproachfully.
"It's got shootin' pains right up it.