“It is,” was The Sparrow’s reply. “At present I can see no solution of the problem. It will be best, perhaps, for you to remain where you are for the present,” he added. He did not tell the young man of his knowledge of Benton and his hostess.
“But I am very desirous of seeing Miss Ranscomb,” Hugh said. “Is there any way possible by which I can meet her without running too great a risk?”
The Sparrow reflected in silence for some moments.
“To-day is Wednesday,” he remarked slowly at last. “Miss Ranscomb is in London. That I happen to know. Well, go to the Bush Hotel, in Farnham, on Friday afternoon and have tea. She will probably motor there and take tea with you.”
“Will she?” cried Hugh eagerly. “Will you arrange it? You are, indeed, a good Samaritan!”
The little old man smiled.
“I quite understand that this enforced parting under such circumstances is most unfortunate for you both,” he said. “But I have done, and will continue to do, all I can in your interest.”
“I can’t quite make you out, Mr. Peters,” said the young man. “Why should you evince such a paternal interest in me?”
The Sparrow did not at once reply. A strange expression played about his lips.
“Have I not already answered that question twice?” he asked. “Rest assured, Mr. Henfrey, that I have your interests very much at heart.”