, by the fact that I considered your
story with reference to the Prince of Malors improbable to the last
degree. In justice to you," he continued more slowly, "I must now admit
the possibility that your description of that incident may after all be
in accordance with the facts. Certain facts have come to my knowledge
which tend somewhat in that direction. I shall consider it a favour,
therefore, if you will consider my remarks at that interview retracted."

"I thank your Grace very much," I answered.

"With reference to the other matter," he continued, "there my opinion
remains unaltered. I do not believe that the papers in the safe were
touched after you yourself deposited them there, and I consider your
statement to the contrary a most unfortunate one. But the fact remains
that you have done your work faithfully, and the Council is satisfied
with your services. That being so, you may rely upon it that any
feeling I may have in the matter I shall keep to myself."

I would have expressed my gratitude to him, but he checked me.

"There is," he said, "one other, a more personal matter, concerning
which I desired a few words with you. I have had a visit from a
relative of yours who is also an old friend of my own. I refer to Sir
Michael Trogoldy."

I looked at him in amazement. I was, in fact, so surprised that I said
nothing at all.

"Sir Michael, it seems, has been making inquiries about you, and learned
of your present position," the Duke continued. "He asked me certain
questions which I was glad to be able to answer on your behalf. He also
entrusted me with a note, which I have here in my pocket."

He produced it and laid it upon the table. I made no movement to take
it.

"The details of your family history," the Duke said, "are unknown to me.
But if the advice of an old man is in any way acceptable to you, I
should strongly recommend you to accept any offer of friendship which
Sir Michael may make. He is an old man, and he is possessed of
considerable wealth. Further, I gather that you are his nearest
relative."

"Sir Michael was very cruel to my mother, sir," I said slowly.

"You have nothing to gain by the harbouring of ancient grievances," the
Duke replied. "I have always known Sir Michael as a just if a somewhat
stern man. Please, however, do not look upon me in any way as a
would-be mediator. My interest in this matter ceases with the delivery
of that letter."

The Duke rose to his feet. I followed