He shook his head slowly.
"I cannot tell you to-day," he said. "It is a matter upon which I should have to consult others."
A sudden thought struck me.
"May I ask at whose suggestion you thought of me?" I asked.
"It was Colonel Ray who pointed out certain necessary qualifications which you possess," the Duke answered. "I shall report to him, and to some others, the result of our conversation, and I presume you have no objection to my making such inquiries as I think necessary concerning you?"
"None whatever," I answered.
The Duke rose to his feet. I took up my cap.
"If Colonel Ray is in," I said, "and it is not inconvenient, I should be glad to see him for a moment."
"Colonel Ray left unexpectedly by the first train this morning," the
Duke answered, looking at me keenly.
I gave no sign, but my heart sank.