This lair of his would be too valuable a retreat in case of need for him to give it up until he was sure that he could do without it.

But a second consideration struck me.

Jonathan Small must have felt that the peculiar appearance of his companion, however much he may have top-coated him, would give rise to gossip, and possibly be associated with this Norwood tragedy.

He was quite sharp enough to see that.

They had started from their head-quarters under cover of darkness, and he would wish to get back before it was broad light.