Meanwhile, a carriage ordered by telephone from the Arlington had already arrived at Fair Oaks.

“Well,” said Ralph Mainwaring, “the carriage is waiting.  We had better proceed to the depot; we can talk of this latest development on our way.”

“You will excuse me, gentlemen,” said Mr. Merrick, quietly, “I have changed my mind, and will postpone my trip to the city.”

“Struck a new trail, eh?” queried Ralph Mainwaring, with a peculiar expression, as he paused to light a cigar.

“On the contrary, sir, only following up an old one,” and, with a somewhat ambiguous smile, the detective withdrew.

The coachman’s sudden disappearance, together with the facts learned from the stable-boy, formed the subject of discussion for the next half-hour between Ralph Mainwaring and the attorney, Scott listening with a thoughtful face, although taking little part in the conversation.  Upon their arrival at the offices of Mainwaring & Co. they were given a cordial greeting by Mr. Elliott and Mr. Chittenden, after which they passed on to the elegant private offices of Hugh Mainwaring.  Mr. Whitney was visibly affected as he entered the familiar rooms, and to each one was forcibly recalled the memory of their meeting a few days before.  A brief silence followed, and then in subdued tones they began to discuss the business which had now brought them there.

At about two o’clock that afternoon, Scott found himself entering an ancient and dilapidated looking block in a rather disreputable part of the city.  He had fulfilled his appointment with Mr. Sutherland, and after an hour’s conversation both gentlemen appeared very sanguine regarding the case under consideration.  As Scott was taking leave, he produced Hobson’s card and related the particulars of their incidental meeting at Fair Oaks, and Hobson’s urgent invitation to call upon him at his office.

Mr. Sutherland laughed.  “About what I expected,” he said.  “It was evident from his remarks at the inquest that some one — probably Mrs. LaGrange — had posted him concerning you, and he is afraid you are onto his secret.”

“I had questioned if it were that, or whether possibly he might be onto mine.”

“Not at all probable,” said the attorney, after a moment’s reflection.  “If he really understood your position, he would be far too cunning to allow you to get sight of him.  You have the scoundrel completely in your power.”

“Yes, as much as he is in anybody’s power; but it is doubtful if any one can hold so slippery a rascal as he.  I believe I will give him a call, however.”

“It would do no harm, taking care, of course, that you give him no information.”

“Oh, certainly,” said Scott, with a smile, as he paused for an instant in the doorway; “my object will be to get, not give, information.”

“His object will probably be the same,” was Mr. Sutherland’s parting shot, as he turned with a laugh to his desk.