"Sorry, my lord, to have to do this at such a time but I am here in the performance of my duty. I should be glad if we could go to a more private room, where I could explain to your lordship without your guests being informed of the matter."
Lord Barminster was about to sharply retort when Shelton, who seemed to realise the seriousness of the affair, touched him lightly on the arm.
"I think, sir," he said earnestly, "it would be as well to hear what this man has to say quietly, as he suggests."
Lord Barminster controlled his feelings, recognising the good sense of the suggestion, and turning coldly to the inspector, said:
"Perhaps it would be best, Inspector. Kindly come this way."
At the end of a small passage outside the anteroom, the door opened into a smaller room, which at one time had been used as a study, and was noted for its impenetrability as to sound. Here they entered; and Lord Barminster, asking all to be seated, bade the inspector proceed with such explanations as he had to offer.
"My lord," he said respectfully, "the explanation is a very simple one, and in deference to your lordship, to make it as private as possible, I have left my men outside the Castle. I, unfortunately, hold a warrant for the arrest of Mr. Adrien Leroy on a charge of forgery."
An exclamation of horror burst from all, except Adrien and Jasper; but the speaker continued:
"In performance of my duty, I arrest him, in the King's name." He touched Adrien lightly on the arm as he spoke.
Lord Barminster drew a long breath, but still hoping against his better judgment that the affair was what its originators considered, a practical joke, he restrained all appearance of anger.