"
Quarrier ridiculed himself for what he was doing. How could he
pretend to trust such a fellow? Again, there was only the hope that
a bribe might be efficacious.
"I will give you five hundred pounds," he said, "on condition that
you leave England at once."
The bid was too low. Northway would be satisfied with twice as much,
provided it were paid forthwith. Pondering, Quarrier decided that he
was about to commit an absurdity. A thousand pounds--and how much
more in future? He looked Northway in the eyes.
"Here is my last word. I don't greatly care whether this secret
comes out or not. If I am to be at your mercy henceforth, I had
rather bid you do what you like; it really doesn't matter much to
me. I will give you five hundred pounds at once--a cheque on a
Polterham banker; moreover, if my secret is kept, I will do you the
other service I offered. But that's all I have to say. If it doesn't
suit you, you must do what you please."
His boldness was successful. Northway could gain nothing by betrayal
of the secret--which he believed to be no secret at all. With show
of indifference, he accepted what was obtainable.
"Then come and drive with me into the town," said Denzil.
Thereupon he stepped out and entered the sitting-room, where the two
women were together. They looked eager inquiry, and he smiled.
"Managed, I think.
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