The body was taken to the nearest guard, and inquiries were instituted. A card-case found on the body led to identification, and a report made to the British Embassy set in motion the law and justice of the peace.
Nothing satisfactory or conclusive was brought to light. No one could account for his lordship's presence in that, the lowest quarter of the city; the only clue to his movements was furnished by his steward and body-servant on board the yacht.
The valet came on shore and gave his evidence before the informal court, which was dealing with the case at the British Embassy, presided over by the attachés.
"When did you see his lordship last?"
"Last night. My lord dined on board alone. He appeared depressed, and altogether low. He told me he should go to bed early."
"And did he?"
"No. Late in the evening a shore-boat came off—one of those caiques, I think they called them—with a letter, very urgent."
"For Lord Lydstone?"
"For his lordship. He seemed much disturbed on reading it."
"Well?"