‘My God! man,’ he cried, ‘what do you mean? You cannot think it possible that—that—’
He tried to finish the sentence, but failed.
‘Indeed, sir, I meant nothing but that we must look at all possible contingencies if we are to find the young lady. It is a long time for her to be away, and, if I mistake not (though I hope you will excuse my mentioning it), the day after her wedding.’
‘Yes, yes; I don’t care who knows it,’ replied Frederick in a voice of pain. ‘We were only married yesterday, that makes this all the more mysterious and extraordinary; but how are we to ascertain the truth? What am I to do?’
‘If you will allow me, sir, I will send some of the boatmen who know the cliffs to search for Mrs Walcheren, and they will soon relieve your suspense, for if she is there they will find her safe enough.’
‘By all means; I ought to have thought of it myself. Thank you, Mr Cameron; pray send for the boatmen as soon as possible, and I will accompany them.’
Mr Cameron looked dubious.
‘If you will permit me, sir, to advise you, I should say stay here, in case of your being wanted, or other news arriving.’
But Frederick was not to be persuaded.
‘Stay here!’ he echoed; ‘what on earth should I do that for? My place is with the men who are going to find her. She has lost her way, probably, and is wandering about in the dark. Of course, I shall accompany them.’