Mildred uttered an exclamation. She had quite forgotten the presence of the American, and dreaded lest she had betrayed Frank. But Natty came forward with a smile. "You need not be afraid, I guess," he said, nodding. "I'm square, and on your side." "I thought you were friendly to--" "To the Berrys? Not much. I've chucked them. They have been making use of me, and have been trying to get Lancaster hanged--" "And are trying," interrupted Eustace, quickly. "It's all right, Mildred. So sure am I of Denham that I intend to trust him." "You need have no fear," said Denham, colouring with pleasure. "I'm straight all through. Don't you trust me, Miss Starth?" Mildred looked at him with her innocent eyes, and he met her gaze without dropping his own. "Yes, I trust you," she said, "thoroughly." "In that case," said Eustace, rubbing his hands, "Mr. Denham can be present when Tamaroo explains to Frank." "Explains what?" "The whole business of the conspiracy. It concerns Frank, and also you, Denham. Tamaroo says that your father was the partner of the late Mr. Lancaster." "I've heard him mention Lancaster's name," said Natty, slowly; "but Tamaroo never came along." "He lay low, as your countrymen say. But it will all be explained to-night--in this room." Mildred uttered an exclamation. "Do you think that is wise?" "Yes. No one is likely to come here." "What about Captain Berry?" asked the girl, doubtfully. "He least of all," said Denham. "He doesn't know where I am, and if by chance he does turn up, I'll keep him going till we can smuggle back Lancaster to his hole." So it was agreed, although Mildred was still anxious. It seemed risky to her to take Frank from his safe hiding-place, and expose him to a chance of capture. However, she implicitly trusted in Jarman, and went back to tell Frank of the arrival of the negro. "How is it you speak English so well?" Eustace asked Tamaroo. "I was educated at a negro university," replied the man. "I am better educated than many a man of your colour, sir. But later on I will tell you my story. To-night I must relate what I know of his father to Mr. Lancaster." And so it came about. Leaving Natty and Tamaroo together, Eustace repaired to the summer-house about nine o'clock, and found Frank waiting for him in a state of subdued excitement. Mildred had told him everything, and he needed no explanation. The night was particularly dark, so the two men left the garden arm in arm. Mildred was walking on the lawn and watched them go, and Mrs. Perth in the house kept Jane employed lest she might learn too much. In a few minutes Frank was in the Shanty and shaking hands with Tamaroo. The old man was much affected at the sight of his master's son. "You are not at all like your father, sir," he said, "but like your dear mother, Heaven bless her!" "You knew my mother?" "She died in my arms," said Tamaroo, quietly, and then took out his bundle of papers.