The doctor said nothing about himself or his personal affairs, and cleverly changed the conversation whenever it threatened to drift in that direction.
It was late when Philip rose from his chair, suggesting that they go to bed.

He laughed frankly across into the other's face.
"Boffin--Boffin--Boffin," he mused.
"Strange I've never heard of you down south, Doctor.

Now what the deuce can you be doing up here ?" There was a point-blank challenge in his eyes.

The doctor leaned a little toward him, as if about to speak, but caught himself.

For several moments his keen eyes gazed squarely into Philip's, and when he broke the silence the same nervous flush that Philip had noticed before rose into his cheeks.