“‘Thomas, I am expecting a caller—a lady. When she arrives you may let me know, and assist me down the stairs. I will receive her in the library.’â€�
“A lady?� said Nick.
“Yes, sir, that is what he said.�
“Well, what more did he say on the subject?�
“This: ‘According to the note I received, she should be here about half-past one, or two o’clock. Be on the watch for her, Thomas.’
“I assured him that I would be, sir, and left him. I have not seen him since that moment, and I have not——â€�
“Wait a moment. Don’t get ahead of your story.�
“No, sir.�
“Did the lady keep the appointment?�
“No, sir. There has been nobody here at all.�