He said nothing, he barely moved, when the banker entered; but his frank face, in which a pair of blue eyes stood well apart, lighted up with interest and attention as Mr. Tomkinson told his tale. When the narrative was ended, he said quietly, “Yes, they may be weather-bound. Did you have a clear understanding that the gold was to be brought in to-day?”
“It was perfectly understood.”
“How much gold did you say there was?”
“From fifteen to twenty thousand pounds’ worth—it depends on how much the agent has bought.”
“A lot of money, sir; quite a nice little fortune. It must be seen to. I’ll tell you what I will do. Two mounted constables shall go out at daylight, and I guarantee that if the escort is to be found, they will find it.”
“Thank you,” said Tomkinson. “I think it ought to be done. You will send them out first thing in the morning? Thank you. Good night.”
As the banker turned to go, the Sergeant rose.
“Wait a moment,” he said. “I’ll come with you.”
They walked contemplatively side by side till they reached the main street, where a horseman stood, hammering at Manning’s stable-gate.
“Nobody in?” said the Sergeant. “You had better walk inside, and put the horse up yourself.”