“‘Did they reply to the telegram?’ I asked.
“‘No, but they have been away since and disguised themselves; but I could see they were the same parties and thought they were card-sharpers. If you look sharp, you will have time to slip into your lodgings and put on other clothes,’ said he.
“‘All right, and I’ll tread close on their heels, and very glad I am to get a good clue without beating about the bush,’ I said to the railway clerk.
“This correct information, sir, enabled me to follow them here without their knowing it. Falcon and Croft took a trap over, and I came in a fly—but I warn you that they may be here bent on mischief. I sent an earlier warning to Miss Dove not to go out without protection.
“S. W.”
“Oh, if this is from S. W., then the first was from him too,” said the squire. “How very clever and sharp, to be sure. I wish we had such men down here.”
“Warner is a born genius in his line, squire.”
“I believe he is, and who was the London detective?”
“Oh, that was the opinionated man who wanted to arrest my friend the captain—his name is Hawksworth.”
“You told us about him at dinner, captain,” said Miss Dove.