“Now goodbye, but send me the money for the cable when you write, and remember--Monty is a thief and Trent is the man to back, which reminds me that Trent repaid to Missionary Walsh all the money which Monty took, which it seems was left with Walsh by him for Monty's keep. But Monty does not know that, so you have the string to make him dance.
“P.S.--Do not forget the small account for disbursements.”
Da Souza folded up the letter, and a look of peace shone in his face. Presently he climbed the stairs to a little back-room and noiselessly unlocked the door. Monty, with pale face and bloodshot eyes, was walking up and down, mumbling to himself. He addressed Da Souza eagerly.
“I think I will go away now,” he said. “I am very much obliged to you for looking after me.”
Da Souza gazed at him with well-affected gravity. “One moment first,” he said, “didn't I understand you that you had just come from Africa?”
Monty nodded again, but with less confidence.
“By any chance--were you called Monty there?”
Monty turned ghastly pale. Surely his last sin had not found him out. He was silent, but there was no need for speech. Da Souza motioned him to sit down.
“I am very sorry,” he said, “of course it's true. The police have been here.”
Da Souza nodded. Benevolence was so rare a part for him to play, that he rather enjoyed it.
“Don't be scared,” he said. “Yes, your description is out, and you are wanted for stealing a few pounds from a man named Walsh. Never mind. I won't give you up. You shall lie snug here for a few days!”
Monty fell on his knees. “You won't let any one know that I am here!” he pleaded.
Monty rose to his feet, his face full of dumb misery.
“Now,” he muttered, “I shall never see her--never--never--never!”
There was a bottle half full of spirits upon the table and a tumbler as yet unused. A gleam flashed in his eyes. He filled the tumbler and raised it to his lips. Da Souza watched him curiously with the benevolent smile still upon his face.
“You are very smart, Ernestine,” he said, looking her admiringly.
“One must be smart at Ascot,” she answered, “or stay away.”
“I've just heard some news,” he continued.
She glanced at him sideways under her lace parasol. “Every one I should think.”