“There was no answer, so I went in, and Charles was not there.”
“Not there?” said Mr Girtle, quickly.
“No, sir. The bed had not been slept in. His livery was on the chair by it, and his cupboard was open where he keeps his private clothes.”
“This is strange,” said Mr Girtle. “Go on.”
“Yes, sir. I thought perhaps he had let himself out through the area gate, sir. He has done such things before, and at a time like this I must speak plain.”
“Yes. Let me have the truth. Go on.”
“I was very angry, sir, and I meant to tell you, for it seemed disgraceful at such a time.”
“Go on.”
“I will, sir,” faltered the butler, “but you must not flurry me. I have had a shock.”
“Let him go on his own way, Mr Capel,” said the old lawyer.