Pringle had been expecting the question for some time, and was ready with his answer.
"Mr. Byrne and Miss Byrne went away together in a cab two or three days after you left home."
"Went away together in cab!" cried Van Duren. "But at least they left word where they were going, and when they might be expected back?"
"Miss Byrne said they were going to the seaside for the benefit of the old gentleman's health; but there was nothing said about when they might be expected back."
"Strange--very strange!" muttered Van Duren. Some presage of coming evil seemed to touch him already. He looked from side to side of the ill-lighted room, and shuddered. Pringle was watching him narrowly.
"Did they take much luggage with them?" he asked.
"I heard Mrs. Bakewell say that there was nothing left in their rooms but the bare furniture."
"Have any letters been received here for them since they left?"
"Not one, sir."
"How was it you did not send me word, either by telegram or letter, when you discovered that they were going away?"