Page:Hornung - Irralies Bushranger.djvu/146

 think we'll talk no more until we've given this place a rather wider berth."

Nor did they, but passed in silence so close to the back veranda that Irralie could have thrown a stone through the open window of her empty room. She wondered whether she should ever see it again. For her brain was now teeming with daring projects and attempts, for which her present submission was but to pave the way. And to pave it the more effectively, when he spoke again she replied with a suavity not inferior to his own.

He had said, "Upon my word, Miss Villiers, I am ashamed to have to treat you like this!"

"I am sure you are," replied Irralie. "But there's one thing you might do to pass the time."

"Only tell me what!"

"You might explain exactly how you planned and carried out this conspiracy. It would edify me, and it couldn't hurt you."