For I had tried to tell Tempest, but he would not let me.
"That's right.

I hope he's cleared his debts off by now." "I--I don't think he has," stammered I.
"Really! It's a pity.

The doctor would be much more likely to be down on him for being in debt than--" He pulled up suddenly, as Tempest at that moment walked up.

He must have heard the last few words; and if it required looks of guilt and confusion on my part to convince him we had been speaking of him, I think I gave him proof positive.
He had apparently intended to summon me to his study.

But, as he saw with whom I was conferring, and overheard the subject of our conversation, he thought better of it, and with lowering face stalked away.
I wished I was dead then! Something told me I had lost my friend, and that no amount of explanation could do away with the barrier which had suddenly been erected between us.
"Awkward," said Crofter.