Even while he was speaking a telegram was handed to Sir Harold, and he opened it with trembling fingers. It was from Margaret Nugent, and ran:
“I have found Theresa. Come to the little cottage at Tenterden.”
He passed it to Asbury, and the detective read it thoughtfully.
“I have sent a man down there this morning,” he said. “We are forestalled. The next train does not leave until eleven o’clock—the one by which your wife went there yesterday. It is now barely half-past eight.”
“I will go to Hyde Park first,” Annesley replied. “I will see if my wife really called upon Lady Elaine. Asbury, what do you think of this telegram? It has filled me with dread. I am afraid that something has happened.”
“It is like a woman to be vague,” the detective said, evasively. “I do not think that I can be of any further use to you now,” he went on, “but do not forget I am ever at your service.”
They shook hands, and Paul Asbury went away, while Annesley gave his valet some hurried orders.
“My wife has gone back to Tenterden,” he said; “I am going to her at once, Stimson, and, if all is well, shall take her to the Park. You will hear from me during the day.”
“Yes, Sir Harold.”
Stimson was very pale. He had just been reading of the suicide of Viscount Rivington, and many strange details in connection with it.