It is true Percival Coolidge took me to that cottage to have certain mysterious things explained, and they were explained to my complete satisfaction." "By Hobart ?" "Yes." "You knew the fellow before ?" She hesitated slightly, although there was no perceptible change in the answering voice.
"For several years; he was in my father's employ; the--the whole trouble originated in a joke, and--and was quite amusing, once I understood.

Of course, after that, I had no further need for you.

Why did you persist in annoying me ?" West hesitated an instant, his mind struggling with the situation.

Was she honest, truthful, in this statement?
Could he say anything which would change her viewpoint?
She must have been deceived by these men, yet how could he expose them so she would comprehend?
He was so little certain of the facts himself, that he had nothing but suspicion to offer.
"Why do you not answer, Captain West ?" The girl's eyes were clear, insistent, a little amused; they somehow aroused his determination.
"I will endeavour to make you understood, Miss Natalie," he explained slowly.

"I would not have you feel that I deliberately pushed myself into this affair.