"All right, Fred," he said. "Shall we start now? There's a fast train in twenty minutes."
"Yes, let us go at once—my luggage can wait."
It was just 3 o'clock when they arrived at Hanley Hall, and twenty minutes later Martin was on his way back—glad to get away.
There was great rejoicing over Carden's return, and much pity for his illness. That was perfectly natural and proper, but it made Martin sick at heart as he watched Kate hovering about his friend, anticipating his every wish and showing in every act the greatest affection for him. A woman looking on would not have been at all alarmed at this exhibition of affection—but then, Martin was only a man, and he went back to London with a heavy heart. He was mistaken, so he told himself as he went back in the train, it was only gratitude she felt for him.
At Bow Street he found a note saying Blount wished to see him, and he left one in return asking Blount to call at his hotel. He had hardly reached his rooms when Blount's card was presented to him and that gentleman ushered in.
Martin was in a bad, and for him, unusual mood, and Blount noticed it immediately.
"Have you any special engagement to-night?" asked Martin.
"No. I'm free except for that fellow, Hall."
"Hang Hall!" growled Martin, as he rang for an attendant.
"With all my heart!" rejoined Blount.