Did Mershone see her ?" he asked.
"No, m'sieur," replied Cerise.
With one accord they descended to the lower hall and the caretaker led the way to her room.

To their surprise they found Mershone still seated in the chair by the fire, his hands clasped behind his head, a cigarette between his lips.
"Here is another crime for you to account for!" cried Arthur, advancing upon him angrily.

"You have driven Louise to her death!" Mershone raised one hand in mild protest.
"Don't waste time cursing me," he said.

"Try to find Louise before it is too late." The reproach seemed justified.

Arthur paused and turning to Mr.Merrick said: "He is right.