I did not wish to disturb him." Barrant looked as though there was only one possible construction to be placed on these replies, but he still did not utter the question which Austin feared and dreaded most.

In a harsh peremptory voice he said--"Show me your son's room." In those words he stood revealed as one with all the resources of the law at his back, able to issue commands which other people must obey.

The rights of liberty and freedom were in his hands.

It needed not that to show Austin Turold how near he stood to the edge of the precipice.

The strain of the interview had told on him.