Whereupon I gave it up in disgust and went home. Jenkins had waited up for me and had evidently been listening for my return, for hardly had I inserted the key in the lock when he opened the door.
"There's a gentleman waiting to see you, sir. He is in the library," he said in a low tone, as he helped me off with my overcoat. "He refused to give his name, sir."
"Very well, Jenkins." I started down the hall when I heard him again at my elbow.
"Pardon my curiosity, sir," he whispered eagerly, "but did you see Mr. McKelvie, sir?"
"No. He is unfortunately away and won't be home for a week," I said bitterly, realizing for the first time how much I had unconsciously counted upon this man's aid.
"Never mind, sir. The trial is two months away and in seven weeks Mr. McKelvie can solve anything, sir."
"Thank you for your encouragement at any rate," I answered, touched by his desire to console me.
"It's the truth, sir," he replied simply.
"I wish I could think so," was my comment, but I did not speak it aloud. Not for anything would I have hurt his feelings by displaying the doubts which had descended upon me again as to the ability of this man he so evidently worshipped. Instead I nodded agreement and stepped into the library.
"Mr. Trenton!"