He paused to steady his shaking voice, then added:
"But I believe I have a clew, and I shall follow it up. I go now to my detective. He is very clever, and I am very sorry I dismissed him. I feel sure he can help me to unravel this mystery."
The hope and courage in his voice inspired her to exclaim, eagerly:
"May Heaven help you—and bless you!"
"Thank you! Those words will inspire me to do my best."
He touched her hand with his lips, like a gallant knight, and bowing to Cissy, left the room.
But while Mrs. Fitzgerald lay unconscious, he had said to the young girl:
"Is there a governess in this house?"
"Yes, Miss Erroll."
"Has she ever carried on a flirtation with Standish?"