Page:Henry rideout--The siamese cat.djvu/100

 "That coolie—We shall find the place, thanks to your—ah—most accurate description. It is nothing to retain you more long, no? Some quarrels of thiefs. However, allow me your address, as a favour; it may be well."

"So you knew already!" cried Scarlett.

"Naturally." The young officer smiled. "Your—ah—courier reported just since. He found the body, and willed to refrain alarming the ladies; is it not? I go investigate shortly."

Scarlett rode down to the river with his chin on his breast. As their launch slipped down stream, in the level light that flamed through the silhouette bars and tatters of palm-groves, he remained silent and thoughtful. Crowded among cushions at the bow, they had no room for secrets.

The great tide turned in flood, making the launch labour slowly; the cool darkness of the