"Do you know?" asked Lashmar, eagerly, as he gave his hand, forgetting the formal salute.
"Yes. We had the news after dinner. Mr. Breakspeare sent a message."
"He lived for about an hour. I came on to Hollingford late, and have passed the night at the Saracen's Head. It's to be understood, of course, that I got the news in town just in time for the last train."
Whilst exchanging rapid sentences, they stood, one within, one outside, the park wall. May held the door as if uncertain what to do next.
"You can spare me a few minutes?" said Dyce, glancing this way and that along the public way.
"Come in. I didn't bring my bicycle, as it's so wet."
"Of course not. You needn't be anxious. Nobody comes this way."
He closed the door. May was looking behind her into the trees and bushes, which hid them from the park The sky had begun to brighten; a breeze shook drops from the shining leafage.
"How does Lady Ogram take the news?" Lashmar inquired, trying to speak with his wonted calm, but betraying a good deal of nervousness.
"I haven't seen her. She was in her room when it came."