One relative inquiring for another is a
natural proceeding. It will not arouse suspicions that you are a
debt-collector."
"Suppose I obtain news of his whereabouts?"
"Telegraph to me and I will give you fresh instructions."
Hume walked to the door.
"Give my kind regards to Miss Layton," he said grimly.
"I will be delighted. Work hard. You will see her all the sooner."
"There goes a man in love," continued Brett, addressing the back of
Winter's skull, though looking him straight in the face. "His career, his
reputation, everything he values most in this world is at stake. He is a
sensible, level-headed fellow, who has become embittered by unjust
suspicion; yet he would unwillingly let a material item like his cousin's
proceedings sink into oblivion just for the sake of telling a girl that
she looks more charming to-day than she did yesterday, or some equally
original remark peculiar to love-making. How do you account for it,
Winter?"
"I give it up," sighed the detective. "We are all fools where women are
concerned."
"You surprise me," said the barrister sternly. "Such a personal confession
of weakness is unexpected--I may say distressing."
Winter shook his head.
"You're not married, Mr. Brett, or you wouldn't talk like that."
"Well, let it pass. I want you to make the acquaintance of that loving
couple, Mr.
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