“Scarcely, my Lord, since he is known to every servant in the house, and people are passing and repassing in every direction.”
“But there is every reason to believe that he has not returned at all,” interposed Linton. “It is some one else has been heard in his dressing-room.”
“Would it not be as well to despatch messengers to Drumcoologan,” said Meek, “and assure ourselves of Cashel's safety? Up to this we are ignorant if he have not shared the fate of poor Kennyfeck.”
“The very suggestion I was about to make. I 'll take Phillis along with me, and set out this instant,” cried Linton.
“We shall miss your assistance greatly here, sir,” said the Chief Justice.
“Your Lordship overvalues my poor ability; but I will hasten to the utmost, and be soon back again.” And thus saying, he left the room, followed by Phillis.
“There must be an inquest at once,” said the Chief Justice. “The coroner has power to examine witnesses on oath; and it seems to me that some clew to the affair will present itself.”
“As to this room, don't you think it were proper to inquire if any one be really within it?” asked Meek.
“Yes; we will proceed thither together,” replied the judge.
“I canna be mistaken in the pistol; I 'll swear to that,” chimed in Sir Andrew, whose whole thoughts were centred on that object.