"

We waited silently, and I endeavored swiftly to formulate a
satisfactory course of action. In spite of all my faith in her--which
could never waver--it was clearly evident this fellow had us helpless
in his grasp. If I was to become free to act it could only be by
yielding to his expressed desires, and apparently accepting his claims.
That this would separate me for the time from Mrs. Henley, alienate her
friendship, was a certainty. Yet I must risk all this even to be of
real service. The end would justify the means. We were confronted by
no common scoundrel, and here was a case where fire could only be
fought with flame. I did not for an instant believe he was Philip
Henley, yet he was apparently fortified with strong evidence to sustain
that claim. The very fact that he so strenuously denied that Philip
was married, convinced me he was an impostor, that he had never even
heard of this secret wedding. Probably the Judge had not mentioned it
while living, nor written any memoranda concerning it. Yet Neale knew,
and there could be no question as to the truth of the matter. In view
of all I decided openly to cast my fortunes with the man, and appear
angry at the deceit with which she had ensnared me. I dreaded the
result, the expression my apparent desertion would bring to her face,
but this seemed the only was possible for me to unmask the fellow. He
had clearly enough catalogued me in his own class, as one who would
serve any master for sufficient reward. Very well, let him so continue
to think, until I could turn the tables, and pay him back in his own
coin. And the quickest way in which to convince him that I was
altogether his man, was to denounce the girl in his presence, and
frankly avow myself on his side. Difficult as this task would
prove--at least until I could make some explanation to her--it was the
sensible course to pursue. I hardened myself to it, my eyes on the
outlines of the man's face, as he shuffled the papers on his desk.

"Do you mind telling me where this vessel is bound?" I asked, not only
curious to learn, but also anxious to break the silence.

"No objections whatever, Craig, if I knew myself," he answered
carelessly. "The _Sea Gull_ being my property sails on my orders, and,
at present, those orders are merely to put out to sea."

"You spoke of leaving the lady ashore at New Orleans."

"Oh, back at the house? You overheard that? Well, I am not above
changing my mind