Oliver shook his head. He was not particularly interested in Rome just now.
“Cardinal Martin is dead—he died on Tuesday—and his place is already filled.”
“Indeed, sir?”
“Yes—the new man was once a friend of mine—Franklin, his name is—Percy Franklin.”
“Eh?”
“What is the matter, Mr. Brand? Did you know him?”
Oliver was eyeing him darkly, a little pale.
“Yes; I knew him,” he said quietly. “At least, I think so.”
“He was at Westminster until a month or two ago.”
“Yes, yes,” said Oliver, still looking at him. “And you knew him, Mr. Francis?”