Nevertheless, the others departed safely. My own
departure is imminent; it has been because of certain domestic details
and by the necessity of awaiting nightfall. You see, I am frank with
you."
"Because the grave is silent!"
"The grave, and ... China. There is no other alternative in your
case."
"Are you sure that there is no other in your own?" asked Stuart
huskily.
"An alternative to my returning to China? Can you suggest one?"
"The scaffold!" cried Stuart furiously, "for you and the scum who
follow you!"
Fo-Hi lighted a Bunsen burner.
"I trust not," he rejoined placidly. "With two exceptions, all my
people are out of England."
Stuart's heart began to throb painfully. With two exceptions! Did
Miska still remain? He conquered his anger and tried to speak calmly,
recognising how he lay utterly in the power of this uncanny being and
how closely his happiness was involved even if he escaped with life.
"And you?" he said.
"In these matters, Dr. Stuart," replied Fo-Hi, "I have always
modelled my behavior upon that of the brilliant scientist who
preceded me as European representative of our movement. Your
beautiful Thames is my highway as it was his highway. No one of my
immediate neighbours has ever seen me or my once extensive following
enter this house." He selected an empty test-tube. "No one shall see
me leave."
The unreality of it all threatened to swamp Stuart's mind again, but
he forced himself to speak calmly.
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