"My dear young lady," I replied, "the best-laid plans are liable to mishap. Three days ago, Tollemache wrote to me telling me that he was in the grip of the enemy, and asking me to come to him at once. Most unfortunately, that letter was not put into my hands until twenty-four hours after it should have been delivered. I was not able to keep the appointment which Tollemache had made with me, as I knew nothing about it until long after the appointed hour. The poor fellow left the hotel that night, and has not since returned."
"IS THERE NO HOPE?"
"And you know nothing about him?"
"Nothing."
I rose as I spoke. Miss Sinclair looked at me.
"Have you no plan to suggest?" she asked.
"No," I said, "there is nothing for us to do but to wait. I will not conceal from you that I am anxious, but at the same time my anxiety may be groundless. Tollemache may return to Mercer's at any moment. As soon as ever he does, you may be sure that I will communicate with you."
I had scarcely said these words before my servant came in with a note.
"From Mercer's Hotel, sir," he said, "and the messenger is waiting."