"But if you went with the clerks of Pendergrast, that was an odd disguise."
"Oh, when I went with them, I dropped that. I became an American naval officer, belonging to the ship _Niagara_, which was then in London. I wore a heavy beard and mustache, and talked through my nose. Besides, I would drink nothing but whisky and sherry cobblers. My American trip proved highly advantageous."
"And do you feel confident that he has not recognized you?"
"Confident! Recognition was utterly impossible. It would have required my nearest friend or relative to have recognized me, through such disguises. Besides, my face is one which can very easily be disguised. I have not strongly marked features. My face can easily serve for an Italian priest, or an American naval officer. I am always careful to choose only such parts as nature has adapted me for."
"And Lord Chetwynde is coming back?"
"Yes."
"When?"
"To-morrow, or next day."
"I wonder how long he will stay?"
"That is a thing which no one can find out so well as yourself."