"Read that, and tell me what you think of it."
Knowles read it. His countenance was even more of a mask than the Duke's. He evinced no sign of astonishment.
"I am inclined, your Grace, to think that it's a hoax."
"A hoax! I don't know what you call a hoax! That is not a hoax!" The Duke held out the lock of hair which had fallen from the envelope. "I have compared it with the hair in my locket, and it is the Duchess's hair."
"May I look at it?"
The Duke handed it to Knowles. Knowles examined it closely.
"It resembles her Grace's hair."
"Resembles! It is her hair."
Knowles still continued to reflect. He offered a suggestion.
"Shall I send for the police?"