All of those present were more or less acquainted with Courthorne's past history, and the suggestion of foul play coupled with the mention of a professional gambler had been significant.

Ferris, while committing himself in no way, had certainly said sufficient.

Then there was a sudden turning of heads as a young woman moved quietly into the midst of the group.

She was ominously calm, but she stood very straight, and there was a little hard glitter in her eyes, which reminded one or two of the men who noticed it of those of Colonel Barrington.

The fingers of one hand were also closed at her side.
"I overheard you telling a story, Ferris, but you have a bad memory and left rather too much out," she said.
"They compelled me to tell them what I did, Miss Barrington," said the lad, who winced beneath her gaze.