At ten o'clock the guests took their seats at a table, over which Olbinett had cast his experienced eye. Paganel had just explored the town, in company with Robert, and now related his nocturnal impressions in a very laconic style. He had seen absolutely nothing.
However, a man less absent-minded would have observed a certain excitement in the streets of Seymour. Groups were formed here and there, which gradually increased. People talked at the doors of the houses, and questioned each other with an air of anxiety. Various daily papers were read aloud, commented upon, and discussed. These signs, one might suppose, could not have escaped the most careless observer; Paganel, however, had suspected nothing.
The major, on the contrary, without even leaving the hotel, had ascertained the fears that were agitating the little community. Ten minutes' conversation with the loquacious landlord had informed him; but he did not utter a word. Not until supper was over, and Lady Helena, Mary, and Robert had retired to their chambers, did the major say to his companions:
"They have traced the authors of the crime committed at Camden Bridge."
"Have they been arrested?" asked Ayrton, quickly.
"No," replied MacNabb, without seeming to notice the eagerness of the quartermaster.
"So much the worse," added Ayrton.
"Well," inquired Glenarvan, "to whom do they attribute the crime?"
"Read," said the major, handing to Glenarvan a copy of the Australian and New Zealand Gazette, "and you will see that the police-officer was not mistaken."