"Golden!"
"You'll have to come with me to Datchet House. I'll see the Duke--I'll have it out with him at once." Mr. Golden threw open the door. "Thompson, Mr. Ruby and I are going out. See that nobody comes near this room until we return."
To make sure that nobody did come near that room Mr. Golden turned the key in the lock, and pocketed the key.
CHAPTER II
When Messrs. Ruby and Golden arrived at Datchet House they found the Duke at home. He received them in his own apartment. On their entrance he was standing behind a writing table.
"Well, gentlemen, to what am I indebted for the honour of this visit?"
Mr. Golden took on himself the office of spokesman.
"We have called, your Grace, upon a very delicate matter." The Duke inclined his head--he also took a seat. "The Duchess of Datchet has favoured us this morning with a visit."
"The Duchess!"
"The Duchess."