"I do not think I shall ever be entirely assured as to that until I
know more of our exact situation," I replied, speaking cautiously. "We
may have been seen coming here, and those weeds would easily conceal an
eavesdropper. The truth is, I have gained very little information of
value, and am as mystified as ever. If that fellow told the truth it
is beyond my understanding."

"But you are sure he knows nothing of those men who sent you here?"

"Yes, he had never heard of Vail, and all he knew about Neale was that
name was signed to the orders of the new overseer."

"Under what authority is the man acting?"

I hesitated, not venturing to look at her, conscious of a personal
feeling which I must conceal.

"Do you not wish to tell me?"

"It is not that," I hastened to explain, but finding the words hard to
speak. "I think he lied, and yet cannot be sure. He claims to be
working under the orders of Philip Henley."

"What! Impossible!"

"So I felt, and consequently hesitated to tell you, but now that I have
been compelled to do so, I will explain in full. He said this under
the menace of a revolver, a condition which often inspires men to speak
the truth. I can scarcely imagine his making up such a story, for he