“You want to marry Miss Randall, do you, not?”

Donaster gave a start, and stared at his visitor for a few seconds.

“Well, what business is it of yours if I do?” he demanded.  “What right have you to ask such a question?  I can attend to my own affairs without any interference from you or anyone else.”

“No, ye can’t, young man, and that’s why I’m here.  You can’t marry Miss Randall without my assistance.  I’m a stand-between, you see, and so have come to your assistance.”

Donaster’s face suddenly brightened, and he looked keenly at Grimsby.

“Do you know where Miss Randall is?” he eagerly asked.

“Ah, I thought I’d fetch you,” and Grimsby smiled.  “Do I know where Miss Randall is?  Well, we can consider that matter later.  I want to know first of all if you want to marry her?”

“Certainly I want to marry her.  Do you think I’m a fool?”

“Very good, very good,” and Grimsby rubbed his hands, a sure sign of his satisfaction.  “That point’s settled.  But the girl’s not agreed, so I understand.  Is that so?”

“I’m afraid it is.  However, her parents are willing, and they are the main ones.”

“Why do they wish you to marry their unwilling daughter?”

“Why?  Oh, that’s quite clear.  They know it will be to her advantage.”

“In what way?”

“From a social point of view.  As the wife of Lord Donaster’s son she will occupy a very high position.  She will be received into the best families, and eventually she will be Lady Donaster.  You see, I am an only son, so the title will come to me.  You can readily understand how anxious her parents are for the consummation of the marriage.”

“Certainly, certainly; it is only natural.  I suppose you have explained to them your prospects?”

“Yes, I have often talked the matter over with them and they are perfectly satisfied.  The title and the social position appeal to them very strongly.”

“And in return?” There was a peculiar expression in Grimsby’s eyes as he asked the question, which Donaster failed to notice.

“Oh, they have agreed to settle a dowry upon their daughter in consideration of the favours she will receive.”

“A large sum, I suppose.”

“Yes, quite satisfactory to me.  But what has this to do with your visit?  There is no reason why I should tell you all this, and I cannot understand myself for doing so.  Anyway, it relieves my mind to talk it over with someone.”

Grimsby did not at once reply.  He helped himself to another cigarette, lighted it and smoked for a few minutes in silence.  Donaster was becoming impatient.  He was tired after his experience on the river the night before, and he wished to be rid of his visitor.  But he was anxious to know what he wanted.  He felt that this man knew where Miss Randall was, and he must find out before he left.