He decided finally upon an alternative which would, he imagined, secure his purpose, while relieving him of the responsibility.

He would tell Mallinson of the Gorley episode, for the rival surely had a right to know.

Whether Clarice was to be informed or not, Mallinson should be allowed to judge.
Fielding assured himself of the justice of his intention for the space of two days without putting it into execution, but on the third he chanced to meet Conway, and was given the information that Mallinson's inherited income amounted to a thousand pounds.

The news decided him.

Under these circumstances Mallinson certainly ought to know.