CHAPTER XV.
The next morning Drake's seat at the breakfast table was empty.
'He caught the early train from Bentbridge,' Captain Le Mesurier explained.

'Business, I suppose.

He told me last thing yesterday night that he had to go.' Clarice coloured and lowered her eyes to her plate.

Mallinson noticed her embarrassment, and took it for evidence of some secret understanding between her and Drake.

He became yet more firmly resolved to put his idea into action.
'You are not in a hurry,' said Captain Le Mesurier.