“What is it, Mr. Dory?” the Earl asked, stooping down.
“There is one name, your lordship, among your list of guests, concerning which I wish to have a word with you,” the detective said—“the name of Mr. Peter Ruff.”
“Don’t know anything about him,” Lord Clenarvon answered, cheerfully. “You must see my daughter, Lady Mary. It was she who sent him his invitation. Seems a decent little fellow, and rides as well as the best. You’ll find Lady Mary about somewhere, if you’d like to ask her.”
Lord Clenarvon hurried off, with a little farewell wave of his crop, and John Dory returned into the house to make inquiries respecting Lady Mary. In a very few minutes he was shown into her presence. She smiled at him cheerfully.
“Another detective!” she exclaimed. “I am sure I ought to feel quite safe now. What can I do for you, Mr. Dory?”
“I have had a list of the guests sent to me,” Dory answered, “in which I notice the name of Mr. Peter Ruff.”
Lady Mary nodded.
“Well?” she asked.
“I have just spoken to his lordship,” the detective continued, “and he referred me to you.”
“Do you want to know all about Mr. Ruff?” Lady Mary asked, smiling.