He could get no more from her.
They lunched on the train, and under the expanding influence of a small bottle of champagne, the air of Mr. Wilkinson grew more and more triumphant at the success of his difficult mission.
When they descended from the train he clasped Pollyooly's right hand firmly, the detective clasped her left, and they walked down the platform. They had not gone thirty yards when they met the Honourable John Ruffin smiling agreeably.
"Hullo, Wilkinson! How are you?" he said cheerfully.
"How are you, Mr. Ruffin? At last we've found her little ladyship, and we're taking her to his grace. He will be pleased," said Mr. Wilkinson in tones of ringing triumph.
"Will he? Where is she?" said the Honourable John Ruffin with an air of lively curiosity.
"Here," said Mr. Wilkinson, drawing Pollyooly forward.
"Where?" said the Honourable John Ruffin, looking at Pollyooly with a somewhat puzzled air.
"Here!" said Mr. Wilkinson a little louder.
"Oh—there?" said the Honourable John Ruffin. "How are you, Pollyooly? I hope you had a pleasant time with Eglantine. But why have you come back so soon? I didn't expect you for some days."