"Esther! Esther!" cried Reuben in a loud voice. But there was never a reply.
The officious Hackman, who stood aside at every door according to the rigid rules of French courtesy, showed them the kitchens, the offices, in fact everything, sparing no detail. He insisted that they should explore the entire length of the two subterranean passages, one of which led to the open country, the other to the river bank.
"Now," he remarked, "you know the house as well as its architect."
"Well?" inquired Mowbray of young Marsham when he returned from his fruitless exploration.
"I have found nothing, my lord," answered Reuben with a tinge of embarrassment.
"Then undoubtedly you divine what I expect of you."
"That I dismiss the men? I was about to do so." He stepped out upon the balcony and addressed his companions.
"The young girl whom I sought is not here; at least she is no longer here. Consequently your presence is no longer required and you may retire."
A muttering of evil augury arose from the ranks of the little group.
"These gentlemen will not go," suggested Mowbray, "until my butler has given each of them a half-guinea with which to drink my health. It would be a pity to give such brave fellows so much trouble for nothing."