"You have been a good friend, certainly."
"My duties kept me near Miss Pethram, so I saw Ferrari but rarely, and as he is devoted to me, naturally he missed my society. At the time I left Deswarth, I came to London to see about my marriage, and on my return--which was on a Sunday--Ferrari came down with me, as he was not singing that night. Is there anything strange in this?"
"No; it seems quite natural," replied Maxwell, after a pause. "I would act the same way towards Kaituna."
"Signor Ferrari," resumed Mrs. Belswin, coldly, "stayed that night at The Chequers, and returned, I believe, next morning to town. I did not see him, as, owing to the terrible death of Sir Rupert, I had to stay with Kaituna. I do not know how he spent the night. I do not know at what hour he returned in the morning."
"But this scarf-pin?"
"It is certainly his; but what of that? He may have come to Thornstream to see me, and lost it on the terrace."
"If so, why did he not see you?"
"I do not know. I know nothing beyond what I have told you; but set your mind at rest. Come here to-morrow morning at eleven o'clock, and I will take you to Signor Ferrari, who will doubtless be able to explain all to your satisfaction."
"You will?"
"Yes; at eleven to-morrow. I am sure he is innocent."