And now Colonel Fletcher voiced a question agitating the minds of several members of the count.
“Colonel Grant,” he said, “you have told us that on the night in question you had Count Samoval under observation, and that upon word being brought to you of his movements by one of your agents you yourself followed him to Monsanto. Would you be good enough to tell the court why you were watching the deceased’s movements at the time?”
Colonel Grant glanced at Lord Wellington. He smiled a little reflectively and shook his head.
“I am afraid that the public interest will not allow me to answer your question. Since, however, Lord Wellington himself is present, I would suggest that you ask his lordship whether I am to give you the information you require.”
“Certainly not,” said his lordship crisply, without awaiting further question. “Indeed, one of my reasons for being present is to ensure that nothing on that score shall transpire.”
There followed a moment’s silence. Then the president ventured a question. “May we ask, sir, at least whether Colonel Grant’s observation of Count Samoval resulted from any knowledge of, or expectation of, this duel that was impending?”
“Certainly you may ask that,” Lord Wellington, consented.
“It did not, sir,” said Colonel Grant in answer to the question.
“What grounds had you, Colonel Grant, for assuming that Count Samoval was going to Monsanto?” the president asked.
“Chiefly the direction taken.”