“I am the family lawyer,” said he simply. “Your mother told me you were in Paris—but in Paris I was given your address at Mr. Netherby Gomme’s here in town. I gathered therefore that you had reasons for your family not knowing your address.”
“Yes,” said Noll.
“I trust you have no engagements to-day, Mr. Noll.”
“I have a serious business, but it must wait a day if you can show me the reason for urgency,” said Noll. “For I am baffled, and have found no clue. I am baffled in a search. I have lost my wife,” he said simply—“and must find her.”
The old eyes grew serious, then twinkled.
“That is the first time I have heard a sentiment of duty from a Ffolliott—from the head of your house,” he said.... “And I am an old man.”
Noll went and looked out of the window:
“Why drag in the Ffolliotts?” he asked wearily.
“Your mother came into the title and estates three days ago,” said the lawyer.
There was a long pause.