But suspicion is easily aroused, and it spreads--aye, like wildfire! And I'm a stranger, as it were, in this country, so far, and there's people might think things that I wouldn't have them think, and--in short, I'm much obliged to you.

And I'll tell you frankly, as you've been frank with me, how I came to be at those cross-roads at that particular time and on that particular night.

It's a simple explanation, and could be easily corroborated, if need be.

I suffer from a disturbing form of insomnia--sleeplessness--it's a custom of mine to go long walks late at night.

Since I came here, I've been out that way almost every night, as my servants could assure you.