"I can't understand it," cried Claude, catching up his hat; "in place of growing clearer, the matter seems to become more involved. How do you intend to proceed? It seems to me that we are at a dead stop."
"By no means, my dear fellow. There is Kerry, alias Denis Bantry, to be examined. We must learn the truth from him."
"He won't tell it! Particularly if our suspicions are correct."
"Perhaps not, but I have provided against that failure. You must appeal to him as the son of his old master, while I am absent."
"Absent! Where are you going?"
"Can't you guess? To Horriston, of course, in order to pick up what information I can. There are sure to be people still alive who remember your father and mother; who recollect the trial, and are still acquainted with Mr. Hilliston. I expect to learn a good deal about that gentleman there; and perhaps something about Jeringham and his disappearance."
"Humph! I doubt if you will be successful," replied Claude gloomily; "however, there is no harm in trying. Where are we going now?"
"I told you before we set out. To call on the vicar. As we can't see Jenny at her father's house we must meet her in another person's. She is like a daughter to Mrs. Linton, and is constantly at the vicarage."
"And no doubt young Linton loves her."
"I'm sure he does. Have you any objection?" demanded Tait slyly.