He stood for a moment looking at the upturned face, and then with a fearful horror he stooped and touched it.

There was no response to either entreaties or movement, and David was sure after five minutes' efforts there never would be.
Then his children, his uncle, his own life, pressed upon him like a surging crowd.

His rapid mind took in the situation at once.

There was no proof.

Nobody had seen them leave together.