The lad wore the sneaking air as of one surprised in a shameful action, which such characters wear even when innocently employed.

But his actions proved that he was not surprised.

With finger on his lip, and eyes enjoining caution, he signed to the Syndic to be silent, and with head aside set the example of listening.
The Syndic was not the man to suffer fools gladly, and he opened his mouth.

He closed it--all but too late.

All but too late, if--the thought sent cold shivers down his back--if Basterga had returned.