His trained ear, besides, had warned him that Willoughby was uneasy at his visit and careful in his speech.

There had been pauses, during which Durrance was as sure as though he had eyes wherewith to see, that his companion was staring at him suspiciously and wondering how much he knew, or how little.

There had been an accent of wariness and caution in his voice, which was hatefully familiar to Durrance's ears, for just with that accent Ethne had been wont to speak.

Moreover, Durrance had set traps,--that remark of his "for no obvious reason, I think I said," had been one,--and a little start here, or a quick turn there, showed him that Willoughby had tumbled into them.
He had no wish, however, that Willoughby should write off to Ethne and warn her that Durrance was making inquiries.

That was a possibility, he recognised, and he set himself to guard against it.
"I want to tell you why I was anxious to meet you," he said.