Nick resolved to go to see Mrs. and Miss Stevens without delay. He hoped to judge by their conduct whether they knew anything about the robberies.
These thoughts passed through his mind in a flash.
He quickly searched the room to be sure that the thief was not concealed in it, and then descended to the main hall. The outer door was open, and Colonel Richmond and his daughter were standing on the steps.
Just as Nick joined them Horace Richmond strolled up. They all stood looking at a carriage which was coming up the driveway.
"Why, it's Mrs. Stevens," exclaimed Mrs. Pond. "I thought you said she did not come here any more."
"She hasn't been here in some time," responded the colonel. "I have thought that she avoided us because of this matter of the jewels."
Nothing more could be said on the subject, for at that moment the carriage drew up before the door.
Colonel Richmond advanced courteously and assisted Mrs. Stevens to alight.
Nick noticed at once that she was much agitated.
Colonel Richmond asked her into the house, but she said that she preferred to sit on the veranda. She had come on business, and would stay but a moment.