He went directly to the nearest police station at Church Court, Kensington.
He asked to see Detective Collinson of the force.
Fortunately, Detective Collinson was at the office, and soon made his appearance.
The duke asked for a private interview.
The detective invited him to sit down in an empty side-room.
There the duke put the case of the missing lady in his hands, giving him all the circumstances supposed to be connected with her disappearance.
The detective exhibited not the slightest surprise at the hearing of this unprecedented story, nor did he express any opinion. Detectives never are surprised at anything that may happen at any time to anybody, nor have they ever any opinions to venture in advance.
Mr. Collinson said he would take the case and give it his undivided attention, but would promise nothing else.
The Duke of Hereward, obliged to be contented with this answer, arose to leave the room. In passing out he met the chief, who had not been present when he first entered.
"Oh, I beg your grace's pardon, but I consider this meeting very fortunate," said that officer, respectfully touching his hat.