“Well, yes, I am. I will be fair and frank with you. My name is Hawksworth.”
“But, sir, possibly my latest information may be of little use to you.”
“Let me judge of that; the smallest clue sometimes leads to a capture.”
“Well, sir, I have been told that Mr Falcon has been seen on board a boulder boat, and that he was then transferred to a smack bound for Folkestone or Boulogne.”
“Really, your information is of the greatest importance, but you are not ‘kidding’ me, I hope? But no! you look too straightforward to do that. You won’t be offended if I ask your name and address, I hope?”
“Oh, dear, sir, I come from Wedwell Park, and my name is Lucy.”
“It is a pleasure to have made your acquaintance,” replied Hawksworth, gallantly. “Here! I say guard, what time does the train for Hastings go?”
“In about ten minutes, sir.”
“Then I must say good-bye,” said Hawksworth, taking off his hat. “I hope to meet you soon again.”
“Willingly, sir.”