“No, colonel; it is a more difficult matter than might be supposed.”
“Where is he, then?
“I know not, colonel, but imagine that now we are after him he is hiding away in some of the back slums in or around London.”
“But how could he have got any information about my wishes or intentions?”
“That I know not, sir; but certain it is that we have been seeking for him both high and low in every hole and quarter; but I fear me he has left London.”
“Left London, and for what, pray?”
“Some two weeks ago, colonel, I heard him say that there were two proclamations out about an attempted murder and a forcible abduction case which took place in the village of Darlington not long since. One and the same person is concerned in both transactions, and altogether a reward of £500 is offered.”
“Impossible!” said Colonel Blood, biting his lip. “I have never seen any of these proclamations.”
“Perhaps not, sir; but Captain Jack said, the last time I saw him, that he had particular reasons for not having them posted up earlier.”
As Bates spoke, Colonel Blood looked straight into his eyes; but so well did Bates play the hypocrite, that Colonel Blood had not the slightest notion that he was aware of the real facts of the case.