“Because that thick growth of hair hiding your face gives you an air of mystery and romance no woman could possibly resist. You're a perpetual puzzle, and to pique a woman's curiosity is the surest way to interest her. Why, there are plenty of women who would marry you simply to find out what is under all that hair. So never you shave.”
“I don't mean to.”
“Unless, of course, you have to—for purposes of disguise, for example.”
“I thought you were hinting that the beard itself was a disguise,” retorted Dunn.
“Removing it might become a better one,” answered Deede Dawson. “You told me once you knew this part fairly well. Do you know Wreste Abbey?”
Dunn gave his questioner a scowling look that seemed full of anger and suspicion.
“What about it if I do?” he asked.
“I am asking if you do know it,” said Deede Dawson.
“Yes, I do. Well?”
“It belongs to Lord Chobham, doesn't it?”