But there could be no question of his duty, or of the claims of Mr.Roberts to whatever help might accrue from an understanding of the relation of this woman to events threatening his reputation with such utter destruction.

Her story might free him from all suspicion or it might actually determine his guilt.

Therefore her story must be had, and at once--if possible, this very night.
But he must wait--wait for the coming of the superintendent.

He felt safe to do this.

Meanwhile he was determined not to let this woman out of his sight; so, drawing up a chair, he settled down within view of her active figure, from which all rigidity had vanished in the interest she was rapidly developing in her work.