“Captain’s ashore, sir. He went to Mr Perowne’s party.”
“Yes, yes,” said that gentleman; “we know: but he has come back.”
“No, sir; not while I’ve been on guard—three hours, sir.”
“Call the sergeant,” said Mr Harley, sharply.
He needed no calling, for, hearing voices, he had come out to see who came so late.
“Where is Captain Hilton?”
“I thought he was stopping to sleep at Mr Perowne’s, sir,” said the sergeant, saluting. “Hasn’t been back. Beg pardon, sir; didn’t see it was Mr Perowne.”
“But he left my house hours ago,” said that gentleman.
“Gone to stay at Dr Bolter’s, perhaps, sir,” suggested the sergeant.
“Are you sure he did not return while your back was turned?” said Mr Harley.