"For what reason, may I ask?"
"Well," said the other, reflectively, "it sounds somewhat egotistical, but I have an idea that there is something going on between the gipsies, Dr. Merle, and Miss Linisfarne which concerns me."
"Concerns you!" repeated Jarner, in surprise. "Why, what can a stranger like yourself have in common with such people?"
"Nothing that I know of. But perhaps I had better tell you how I came here, and leave you to judge for yourself."
"I am all attention," said the vicar, seriously, laying down his pipe, "and I must confess that I am curious to know who you are."
"That is easily answered," returned Dan, smiling. "I am Lord Ardleigh."
Jarner rose to his feet, with an expression of blank astonishment in his rubicund face. The information took him completely by surprise. He had guessed long ago that Dan was a gentleman, but never for a moment dreamt that he was a man of title.
"Lord Ardleigh," he repeated slowly--"the owner of Farbis Court?"
"That identical person, Mr. Jarner."
The vicar pinched his nether lip between finger and thumb. A frown passed over his face, and he looked curiously at the nobleman.