Trent had done many brave things in his life, but he had never been conscious of such a distinct thrill of nervousness as he experienced during those few minutes' silence.

Ernestine, for her part, was curiously exercised in her mind.

He had shaken her faith in his guilt--he had admitted her to his point of view.

She judged herself from his standpoint, and the result was unpleasant.

She had a sudden impulse to tell him the truth, to reveal her identity, tell him her reasons for concealment.