“And was the dying man’s deposition the only reason that made you hurry up to town at such a terrible pace?”
“Not exactly, gentlemen; something more.”
“What then?”
“When the dead man’s things were searched, we found papers, cards, and documents in his pockets, all bearing the name of Colonel Blood, and the supposition was, that he was that individual.”
“And was it?”
“We haven’t found out yet, for when I rode up to his mansion, I found the place in great confusion, and the colonel was out of town, so it was supposed.”
“I heard he had gone to Darlington,” said Bates.
“If he did go there, then he must have been killed,” said Jack.
“I knew not that, gentlemen, but heard that his house had been robbed of all its plate, jewels, and valuables. Many of the household were killed or wounded in fighting with the robbers, and all was in a dreadful uproar.”
“Astonishing,” said Jack. “Here, landlord, more wine.”