Before Larcher could answer this home thrust, a waiter entered with a letter for him which had just arrived.
"From Hilliston," said Claude, recognizing the writing. "I wonder what he has to say?"
"It's only another move in the game," murmured Tait; then as Claude, after glancing at the letter, uttered an ejaculation of surprise, he added: "What is the matter?"
"Hilliston is going down to Eastbourne."
"Impossible!" cried Tait, holding out his hand for the letter. "He is surely not so clumsy as to show his hand so plainly."
"He does, though. Read the letter yourself."
"My Dear Claude [wrote Hilliston]: Mrs. Hilliston has decided to leave town for Eastbourne this week, so it is probable we will see you and Mr. Tait down there. If you can spare the time come to dinner at half-past seven to-night, and tell me how you are getting on with your case.
"Yours very sincerely,
"Francis Hilliston."
"Well," said Claude, as Tait silently returned the letter, "what do you think?"
"I think that Hilliston intends to look up Jenny Paynton."
"I can see that," replied Claude impatiently, "but touching this invitation to dinner."