"Just as you wish, of course."
"To-morrow morning—as early as you like. My servants will be at home then—the house will be ready—and I can make arrangements—or else we'll wait, as you say, until after the inquest."
The sound of a bell broke the silence that ensued.
"You must excuse me," said his lordship dryly, "my servants are out, and there's some one at the front door."
"I can hear footsteps below stairs, my lord," remarked the officer.
"Ah! I believe you're right. Those two blackguards must have come home and I didn't know it. They do pretty much as they like."
Shuffling, uncertain footsteps were heard across the hall. The officer said hurriedly:
"One more thing, my lord—you will pardon me asking but—you had not thought of—er—offering a reward?"
"What for?"
"The apprehension of the murderer, or useful information that would lead to conviction."