“Up to the King’s Arms,” he said huskily; and taking Leslie’s arm, the old man walked slowly towards the waterside inn; but they had not gone half-way before they encountered George Vine coming hastily down.
Uncle Luke’s whole manner changed.
“Where are you going?” he cried half angrily.
His brother merely pointed to the boat.
“How did you know? Who told you?” he said harshly.
“Nne,” was the calm reply. “Luke, do you suppose I could rest without watching for what I knew must come?”
His piteous, reproachful voice went to the heart of his hearers.
“Tell me,” he continued earnestly, “Mr Leslie, the truth.”
“There is nothing to tell, sir,” said Leslie gravely, “so far it is only surmise. Come with us and wait.”
Their suspense was not of long duration. In a very short time they were summoned from where they were waiting to another room, where Dr Knatchbull came forward with a face so full of the gravity of the situation that any hope which flickered in Duncan Leslie’s breast died out on the instant; and he heard George Vine utter a low moan, as, arm in arm, the two brothers advanced for the identification, and then Luke led his brother away.