Chaskin was overcome with emotion several times as he read the service, and Paul wondered if what Miss Clyde had asserted was true, and if the vicar had also been conquered by, the triumphant beauty of Milly. It seemed likely, but Paul had heard no rumour in confirmation of the report. From the face of Chaskin he looked to that of Herne, and saw that the latter was scowling at Lovel, who, with his bent head and dejected mien, stood on the other side of the grave. Lucas took no notice of Herne's stern gaze, but stared with tearful eyes into the hole, at the bottom of which lay the coffin of Milly Lester. So sad did he look, so overcome with a sorrow far removed from remorse or terror, that Mexton unhesitatingly acquitted him of complicity in the crime. Whosoever had cut short the thread of that young existence, it was not Lucas Lovel.
Later on Paul caught a glimpse of Gran Jimboy's red cloak flaming on the outskirts of the crowd; and when the service was over he went to look for her, in the hope of discovering why she lied at the inquest. But either the old dame had guessed his intention, or did not want to be spoken to by anyone; for before he could reach the spot where he had seen her standing, she had vanished and he could not determine in which direction she had gone. While he was wondering how he should find her he was greeted by Darcy Herne, who looked haggard and worn in his black clothes.
"Mr. Mexton," said he, leading Paul to one side for confidential discourse, "I know from Iris that you are looking for the assassin of Milly. Well, I wish you to do nothing further in the matter till I return."
"Till you return!" repeated Paul, with a swift glance at the pallid face of his companion. "Are you going away?"
"Yes; I am going to London."
"On one of your missions connected with religious work?"
"No; on a mission connected with the murder of my poor Milly."
"Really!" Paul looked sceptical. "I can't conceive how the commission of a crime in Barnstead can take you to London. May I ask for your reasons?"
"Not at present," replied Herne quietly; "later on I may explain them."
"At least tell me why you wish me to do nothing in the matter until your return?"