Chapter Six.
A Further Mystery.
I stood awaiting his return for a few moments, and then followed him out upon the landing, where my feet fell noiselessly upon the thick Turkey carpet. Almost opposite, across the open staircase, I could see into the large drawing-room, and there, to my amazement, I saw Kirk raising and lowering one of the blinds.
He was making the same signal to someone outside in the park as that made by the Professor before his death!
I slipped back to the study, much puzzled, but in a few moments he returned, smiling and affable.
What signal had he made—and to whom? It was foggy outside, therefore the watcher must have been in the close vicinity.
Antonio appeared at the door, whereupon Kirk gave the manservant certain instructions regarding the payment and discharge of the servants. Apparently one of them had returned and asked for her wages in lieu of notice.
“Be liberal with them,” urged my companion. “We don’t want any grumbling. There is no suspicion as yet, and liberality will disarm it.”