CHAPTER XXIX.
THE NOBLEMAN AND THE DETECTIVE—A CONSULTATION.
In a few days after this a gentleman presented himself at the outer gate of Broxbridge Hall, and told the porter that he desired to see the earl upon important business.
“Show Mr. Wrench in at once,” said Lord Ethalwood to Jakyl; “of course I want to see him.”
The detective entered, and introduced himself to the nobleman, who desired him to be seated.
“Well, Mr. Wrench, my solicitor informs me that there is a dead lock in this business; can nothing more be done?”
“Oh, we can do a great deal more, my lord,” observed Wrench; “but you must acknowledge that I am furnished with such slender material, and then there’s the lapse of time, and many other things against us.”
“Admitted—still you do not give up all hope.”
“Well, no, I’m not accustomed to do that. I am glad we have met, my lord, for many reasons—you will, I am sure, pardon me if I am plain-spoken.”
“Certainly, speak as openly and frankiy as possible. I desire you to do so. Up to the present time I am free to confess we have been baffled.”