"You may go," said the duke to the messenger, who immediately retired.
"Now, Mr. Setter, do you wish to search the premises, or examine the servants first?" inquired the duke.
"Examine the servants first, your grace; as I may thereby gain some clew to follow in my search."
"Very well," said the duke, again touching the bell.
The prompt footman re-appeared.
"Whom do you wish called first?" inquired the duke.
"The lady's maid," answered the detective.
"Go and tell the duchess's maid that she is wanted here immediately," said the duke.
The footman bowed and went away on his errand.
A few minutes passed, and the lady's maid entered.