The truth is, I have gained very little information of value, and am as mystified as ever.

If that fellow told the truth it is beyond my understanding." "But you are sure he knows nothing of those men who sent you here ?" "Yes, he had never heard of Vail, and all he knew about Neale was that name was signed to the orders of the new overseer." "Under what authority is the man acting ?" I hesitated, not venturing to look at her, conscious of a personal feeling which I must conceal.
"Do you not wish to tell me ?" "It is not that," I hastened to explain, but finding the words hard to speak.

"I think he lied, and yet cannot be sure.

He claims to be working under the orders of Philip Henley." "What! Impossible!" "So I felt, and consequently hesitated to tell you, but now that I have been compelled to do so, I will explain in full.

He said this under the menace of a revolver, a condition which often inspires men to speak the truth.