"The fact is," her father continued, "Chopping came to see me with a long tale and a certain request which, under the circumstances--which I will explain to you afterwards--I could not as a magistrate refuse. I was compelled to sign a search warrant for him to go over Falcon's Nest. It was against my inclination, and a most unpleasant duty for me to perform. But I considered it my duty, and I attended there myself in order that it might not be abused. I hope to have your forgiveness for the liberty which we were compelled to take." There was still no change in Mr. Brown's face, but, standing close to him, she heard him take a quick deep breath. Curiously enough, it was a relief to her to hear it. Such great self-restraint was almost unnatural. "You only did your duty, Mr. Thurwell," he answered quietly. "You owe me no apology." "I am very glad that you see it in that light," Mr. Thurwell said, "very glad indeed. But I have a further confession to make." He drew Mr. Brown a little on one side, out of hearing of the others, but nearer to her than any of them, and commenced talking earnestly to him. This time she could tell that he was disturbed and uneasy, but she could not follow connectedly all her father said. Only a few stray words reached her. "Very sorry indeed.... Quite accidental.... Will preserve ... discovery." "Then I may rely upon you to keep this absolutely to yourself?" she heard Mr. Brown say earnestly. "I give you my word, sir!" her father answered. Then they turned round, and she saw that Mr. Brown looked distinctly annoyed. "However did you come here, Helen?" her father asked, suddenly remembering her presence. "I came for a walk, and met Mr. Brown in the plantation," she explained. "Well, since you are here," he remarked good humoredly, "you must help me to induce Mr. Brown to come back to the Court. So far, we have been wretched neighbors. We shall insist upon his dining with us, just to show that there's no ill-feeling," he added, smiling. "Now, no excuses." "Thank you, but I never go out," Mr. Brown answered. "I have not even any clothes here. So----" "Please come, Mr. Brown," she said softly. He flashed a sudden glance at her from his dark eyes, which brought the color streaming into her cheeks. Fortunately, twilight was commencing to fall, and she was standing a little back in the shadow of the plantation. "If Miss Thurwell wishes it," he said, in a tone of a man who offers himself to lead a forlorn hope, "it is settled. I will come." CHAPTER IX MR. BROWN DINES AT THE COURT