It was fortunate, therefore, that Shepherd had a job in Mesopotamia, and that his business was closed down for the present.

If they did learn who he was, they would still be a long while before they obtained any information about Helena from him.

Mr.Manley's keen desire was that the first excitement about the murder should have died down before they did get it.

He was a firm believer in the soothing effect of time.

The discovery of Helena's allowance, if it were made now, might cause her considerable annoyance, if not actual trouble.