‘To know his design is to win,’ said Dare. ‘And to win is to send him back to London where he came from.’
Havill inquired if Dare had seen any sketch of the design while with Somerset?
‘Not a line. I was concerned only with the old building.’
‘Not to know it is to lose, undoubtedly,’ murmured Havill.
‘Suppose we go for a walk that way, instead of consulting here?’
They went down the town, and along the highway. When they reached the entrance to the park a man driving a basket-carriage came out from the gate and passed them by in the gloom.
‘That was he,’ said Dare. ‘He sometimes drives over from the hotel, and sometimes walks. He has been working late this evening.’
Strolling on under the trees they met three masculine figures, laughing and talking loudly.
‘Those are the three first-class London draughtsmen, Bowles, Knowles, and Cockton, whom he has engaged to assist him, regardless of expense,’ continued Dare.
‘O Lord!’ groaned Havill. ‘There’s no chance for me.’