He had not finished his repast before a cab drove up, containing Messrs. Forde and Kleinwort.
Turner, sauntering idly about the lawn, was accosted by them.
"I want to see Mrs. Mortomley," Mr. Forde exclaimed.
"She has not returned. She left yesterday, as Mr. Meadows told you, sir, with Mrs. Werner."
"Yes; but she has come back here."
"That she certainly has not," was the quiet reply.
The two men looked at each other; then Mr. Kleinwort said,
"We should like to speak just one word with that bright little maid, Esther I think you call her. Will you tell her so?"
"I will find her myself," said Mr. Forde, and he strode into the house, followed by Kleinwort. As they entered the kitchen, Meadows, looking little better for his breakfast, rose to meet them.