"They left last night," Cole went on dealing with the questions in order, "which accounts for the fact that I did not inform your grace, information having arrived with chops—ten minutes ago."
Cole paused deferentially, then continued, "If your grace will remember, I suggested a joint for to-day's lunch, a suggestion which was not acceptable. Had it been a leg of mutton, your grace would have been informed two hours ago—the joint requiring that extra time to cook, and the butcher in consequence calling earlier."
"You are vindicated, Cole," said the Duke sadly—
As they disposed of the dilatory chop at lunch the Duke was exceptionally quiet. "I don't know why they've gone away," he said at last, "but I'm not so sure that their departure isn't providential."
"My mind was runnin' on the same set of rails," said Hank. He pushed back his plate and produced a cigar. "Duke, it's about time we settled Big Bill for good an' all."
"Don't tell me," said Tuppy hastily, "that your shootin' friend is in the neighbourhood?"
Hank nodded slowly.
"Here last night, wasn't he, Dukey?"
"He was," said the Duke absently.
"We traced his little footsteps in the garden bed," said Hank.