The rumbling of the wheels of the vicar’s chariot were heard on the hard dry road, and Lord Ethalwood was alone once more.
He did think the matter over after the departure of Canon Lenthal, and his heart softened.
“He is right—oh, he is quite right! I am childless—have no kith or kin that I know of. I must and will take active measures, and see if she be still alive.”
He sat down at the table, and buried his face in his hands.
The hour sped by, and the vicar returned, agreeable to his promise.
“I have taken your advice, and have thought the matter seriously over,” said Lord Ethalwood.
“And what is your ultimatum?” inquired Canon Lenthal.
“To institute inquiries without further delay.”
The two friends sat down once more, and began to discuss details in a serious and business-like manner.
To the great surprise of the vicar, he learnt from Lord Ethalwood that he had never heard a word of his daughter after she left Broxbridge.