The man paused, as though he scarcely understood. "Mr. Ryle is not here, sir," was the answer.
"How long has he been gone?"
"He has not been here at all, sir, that I know of. I don't think he has."
"Just ask, will you?" said George. "He came here to see Mr. Chattaway. It was about five o'clock."
The man went away and returned. "Mr. Ryle has not been here at all, sir. I thought he had not."
George wondered. Could he be out somewhere with Chattaway? "Is Mr. Chattaway at home?" he inquired.
"Master is in bed," said the servant. "He came home to-day about five, or thereabouts, not feeling well, and he went to bed as soon as tea was over."
George turned away. Where could his father have gone to? Where to look for him? As he passed the lodge, Ann Canham was locking the gate, of which she and her father were the keepers. It was a whim of Mr. Chattaway's that the larger gate should be locked at night; but not until after ten. Foot-passengers could enter by the side-gate.
"Have you seen my father anywhere, since you left our house this evening?" he asked.
"No, I have not, Master George."