at there was no immediate hurry about starting for Keldale, and that
the baronet must come up to his sitting room first and have a little
refreshment.

The effect of a couple of large glasses of sloe gin was quickly
apparent. Sir Malcolm became decidedly happier and even more
confidential. He was considerably taken aback, however, when his host
suddenly asked, with a disconcertingly intense glance:

"Are you quite sure you are really innocent?"

"Innocent!" exclaimed the baronet, leaping out of his chair. "Do you
mean to tell me you doubt it? Do you actually believe I am capable of
killing a man in cold blood? Especially the honoured head of my own
house?"

Carrington seemed to suppress a smile.

"No," said he, "I don't believe it."

"Then, sir," said the baronet haughtily, "kindly do not question my
honour!"

This time Carrington allowed his smile to appear.

"Sit down, Sir Malcolm," he said, "pull yourself together, and listen to
a few words."

Sir Malcolm looked extremely surprised, but obeyed.

"What I am going to say is in the strictest confidence and you must give
me your word not to repeat one single thing I tell you."

His serious manner evidently impressed the young man.

"I give you my word, sir," said he.

"Well then, in the first place, I am a detective."

For a few seconds Sir Malcolm stared at him in silence and then burst
into a hearty laugh.

"Good egg, sir!" said he. "Good egg! If I had not finished my sloe gin
I should drink to your health!"

It was Carrington's turn to look disconcerted. Recovering himself he
said with a smile:

"You shall have another glass of sloe gin when you have grasped the
situation. I assure you I am actually a detective--or, rather, a private
enquiry agent."

Sir Malcolm shook a knowing head.

"My dear fellow," said he, "you can't really pull my leg like that. I
can see perfectly well you are a gentleman."

"I appreciate the compliment," said Carrington, "but just let me tell
you what was in the telegram which has brought you here. It ran--'Come
immediately urgent news don't answer please don't delay. Cicely
Farmond.'"

Sir Malcolm's mouth fell open.

"How--how do you know that?" he asked.

"Because I wrote it myself. Miss Farmond is quite unaware it was sent."

The baronet began to look indignant.

"But--er--why the devil, sir----"

"Because I am a detective," interrupted Carrington, "and I wished to see
you."

Sir Malcolm evidently began