"My lord, have you taken no steps to ascertain the truth of his death?"
"My solicitors are now making all inquiries at Bukharest and Krajova."
"I should have thought that solicitors were scarcely the people to employ."
"Who else is to be trusted with such a story as this?"
"I am, Lord Melbourne."
"You—but you are a stranger to me and my house."
"A stranger who is willing to become a friend. Say that you will put no opposition in my way and I will begin my task at once."
"I appreciate your offer, but must decline it. Acceptance would imply an obligation I am unwilling to recognize."
"I ask for no recognition. To-night, my lord, I leave London for Bukharest. In a month or less I will return to tell you whether Georges Odin is alive or dead."
The Earl stared at him amazed.