They are believed to have designs on the Abbey!"
"But why aren't they run in?"
"Exactly what I asked papa on the way here this evening; he says
there is no warrant out against the men at present, and all that
can be done is to watch their movements."
"Oh! so they are being watched?"
"Yes, by a detective who is down here on purpose. And I heard
Lord Amersteth tell papa that they had been seen this afternoon
at Warbeck Junction!"
The very place where Raffles and I had been caught in the rain!
Our stampede from the inn was now explained; on the other hand, I
was no longer to be taken by surprise by anything that my
companion might have to tell me; and I succeeded in looking her
in the face with a smile.
"This is really quite exciting, Miss Melhuish," said I. "May I
ask how you come to know so much about it?"
"It's papa," was the confidential reply. "Lord Amersteth
consulted him, and he consulted me. But for goodness' sake don't
let it get about! I can't think WHAT tempted me to tell you!"
"You may trust me, Miss Melhuish. But--aren't you frightened?"
Miss Melhuish giggled.
"Not a bit! They won't come to the rectory. There's nothing for
them there. But look round the table: look at the diamonds: look
at old Lady Melrose's necklace alone!"
The Dowager Marchioness of Melrose was one of the few persons
whom it had been unnecessary to point out to me.
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