"I've got the best Scotland Yard can supply working for us, and each man has been offered fabulous rewards if he can ascertain her whereabouts. So far I have no news; no hope. Dad, I love Vita so that this thing has nearly set me crazy. I tell you I must find her. I must save her from these devils, or——"
"Have you seen Von Hertzwohl?"
Ruxton started. His drawn face and straining eyes underwent a complete change at the simple enquiry from his father.
"No. I——"
"It seems to me if their object is to get at him it should not be impossible that a clue—— Besides, I sent a letter on to him, which came under cover addressed to me. That was the first thing this morning, just before you arrived. It was written in a woman's hand, and——"
"God! Why didn't you speak of it before?" The demand was almost rough. Such was the rush of blind hope that suddenly surged through the younger man's heart.
The father's eyes twinkled.
"You had told me nothing. I knew nothing of the trouble."
"Of course. I'm sorry, Dad." Ruxton's whole attitude had undergone a swift change.
Now he was all eager hope, and strung to a pitch of desire for action.