Dora found her courage. “I don't believe a word you say,” she retorted firmly. “That woman had no reason to tell such lies about me and I am sure she didn't. If she had turned against anyone it would have been against you because of the hundreds of pounds she had paid you and your refusing to help her when she had most need of you.”
“A-ah!” exclaimed the doctor instantly. “And for you to know that shows how thick you were with her. You must have been or she wouldn't have told you anything about me.” He looked amused. “But that gives you no hold upon me, young lady, for of course I should always deny it and no one has any proof.”
He regarded her strained and white face. “But there, there, don't look so troubled,” he went on ingratiatingly. “I shall never give you away. You can depend upon
