Nay, more! Far from regretting what he had done, in his tone rang a note of satisfaction in his accomplishment.
Even with the gems spread out before her and every evidence of crime apparent, she had not believed it.
Not until she heard the bitter, irrevocable confession from his own lips did she waver, and even then she battled against the truth, refusing to be convinced. There must be some explanation, she told herself. Nevertheless, the shock of what she had learned was overwhelming.
It seemed as if every ounce of strength left her body. Her head swam. Her heart beat wildly.
"I must not give way!" she reiterated to herself. "I must put on a brave front. He must not suspect I know."
It took a few moments for her to regain her grip on herself, to quiet her throbbing heart, to drag back her ebbing strength.
"Here is your coffee, Mr. Heath," she called.
She hoped his friend would open the door and relieve her of the tray that she might immediately withdraw, but instead, Heath himself responded:
"Come in, Mrs. Howe. I'm afraid we've delayed you. I had entirely forgotten about breakfast and so, I'll be bound, had Currier. You met my right-hand man down stairs, I take it. By traveling all night, he made very good time."
"Oh, Currier is used to traveling at all hours. Night or day are both alike to him," laughed Heath.
"You found the house without trouble?" Marcia inquired, making an effort to address the newcomer in a natural, off-hand manner.
"Yes, Mrs. Howe. A young man at the garage directed me to the beach and there I discovered a yellow dory which I appropriated. I don't know as I should have taken it, but as I needed a boat, I pressed it into service."
"Indeed. Then perhaps you will pardon my using it."
"Certainly. In fact, I am glad you did. It was left on the mainland by mistake."
As Marcia turned to go, her unfailing courtesy prompted her to add:
"Mr. Currier is welcome to stay if he wishes to, Mr. Heath. We can put him up perfectly well."
"Oh, no. He is returning directly. It seems wiser for him to go back in the boat and leave the car for me to use here. Nevertheless, I greatly appreciate your kindness."
"Mrs. Heath is anxious," put in Currier. "She begged me to come home as soon as possible that she might know how Mr. Heath was. Naturally she has been much worried."