"There has been a terrible mistake, I tell you."
"In that case her Ladyship can no doubt easily explain it."
"Her Ladyship is ill. She cannot be disturbed."
"I am afraid that cannot be avoided. I must see her at once. But if you wish it, I will not question her till she has been examined by our doctors."
Cyril rose and moved automatically towards the door.
The inspector stepped forward.
"Sorry, my lord, but for the present you can see her Ladyship only before witnesses. May I ring the bell?"
"What is the use of asking my permission? You are master here, so it seems," exclaimed Cyril. His nerves were at last getting beyond his control.
"I am only doing my duty and I assure you that I want to cause as little unpleasantness as possible."
A servant appeared.