“Great Scott, so they have!”
The two gazed at each other with wide eyes.
“So Jefferson did hear what we were talking about!” Roger almost whispered. “I have an idea that things are going to get rather exciting very soon, after all.”
CHAPTER XVII.
Mr. Grierson Becomes Heated
But however much Jefferson might guess of their activities, certainly nothing was visible in his manner as Roger and Alec entered the drawing room, twenty minutes late for tea. He greeted them in his usual curt, rather brusque way, and asked casually how they had managed to amuse themselves. Lady Stanworth was not present, and Mrs. Plant was seated behind the tea tray.
“Oh, we went for a stroll through the village; but it was too hot to be pleasant. Thanks, Mrs. Plant. Yes, milk and sugar, please. Two lumps. You got through your business in Elchester all right? I saw you starting.”
“Yes. Got off infernally late. Had to rush things. However, I managed to get everything done all right.”
“Have they arranged about the inquest yet, by the way?” Alec asked suddenly.
“Yes. To-morrow morning at eleven, here.”
“Oh, they’re going to hold it here, are they?” said Roger. “Which room will you put them in? The library?”