“No. I never knew him to do such a thing before.”
“Do you consider that those initials have been recently cut, Lord Granville?”
“Really, my lord,” said Mr. Sewell, “this is not evidence.”
“I shall not interfere,” said the judge, almost grimly.
“They are recently cut,” said Bertie. “It never belonged to Lord Clydesfold. He wouldn’t have bought a revolver of this description; a trumpery, a silver-plated thing!” and he put it from him with a gesture of contempt which made the crowd exchange glances.
“You left England suddenly, Lord Granville,” said Mr. Edgar; “you saw your friend Lord Clydesfold before you left?”
“I did; a few hours before. I have cause to remember it.”
Mr. Edgar pricked up his ears.
“May I ask you what you mean?” he said. “Will you tell us why you left England?”
Bertie glanced for one half-second toward the pale, lovely face which to him was like a star in the eager, crowded court.