Ware was simply laid up with an attack of
pneumonia. But for the benefit of the public the journalists ascribed it
to romantic and undying love. Giles, who was a matter-of-fact young
Englishman, did not see these descriptions, or he would have been much
disgusted at the sickly sentimentality.

Meantime no news was heard of Anne. It was not known that the tall
stranger had been with her, for several people had seen the car passing
on its way to Tilbury. It was a lucky thought that had made Trim take
that particular direction, and merely by chance that he had stumbled on
the motor overthrown in a hedge. Evidently an accident had occurred, but
no one was near at the time, as it took place some little distance from
Tilbury and in a lonely part. But it was conjectured that the two
occupants had proceeded on foot to Tilbury. A boatman was found who
related that he had taken a lady and gentleman across to Gravesend, and
that the gentleman walked a trifle lame. They landed on the Gravesend
shore, and here the boatman lost sight of them. It was the lady who paid
his fare, and he said that she appeared to be quite calm. He did not see
the face of the man, but described that of Anne and her dress also.
There was no doubt but what she was the fugitive.

However, here the trail ended. Once in Gravesend, and all trace of the
pair was lost. Steel made inquiries everywhere, but without success. The
two might have got away in a ship, but this he could not learn. The
night was foggy and dark, and no ship had gone out of the river,
according to the boatmen. Steel could discover nothing, and resolved to
throw up the case. But at the eleventh hour he stumbled on a clue, and
followed it up. The result of his inquiries made him return at once to
Rickwell, where he sought out Mr. Morley.

The little man had sent his wife and family away from The Elms, as the
atmosphere of the house was melancholy in the extreme. Mrs. Morley, not
averse to more cheerful surroundings, elected to go to Brighton with the
triplets, and took two servants with her. Morley remained behind with a
reduced staff, and promised to join her later. He desired to wait until
he could see the detective. His wish was speedily gratified, for three
days after the departure of his wife Steel made his appearance. Morley
received him in the library.

"How do you do, sir?" said the detective, as they shook hands. "I am
glad to see that you are looking better."

"I am getting over