Robin noticed it.
"It is bad news," he said shortly. "I must say no more…. Will you inquire for me; and come and tell me at once."
When the young man had gone Robin read the note again before destroying it.
"I spoke to Sir A. to-day. He will have none of it. He seemed highly suspicious when I spoke to him of you. If you value your safety more than her Grace's possible comfort, you had best leave at once. In any case, use great caution."
Then, in a swift, hurried hand there followed a post-script:
"Mr. B. is just now arrived, and is closeted with Sir A. All is over, I think."
* * * * *
Ten minutes later Merton came back and found the priest still in the same attitude, sitting on the bed.
"They will have none of it, sir," he said. "They say that one only came, in advance of Mr. Beale."
He came a little closer, and Robin could see that he was excited.