It was mentioned that Drake had not been seen there at any time during the course of the evening.
Fielding jumped to the conclusion that he had met with an accident, and set out for his chambers on the instant.

He found Drake quietly eating his breakfast.

Only half the table, however, was laid for the meal; the other half was littered with papers and correspondence, while a pile of stamped letters stood on one corner.

'I was expecting you,' said Drake quietly.
'Why, what on earth has happened ?' asked Fielding.

'Why didn't you speak last night ?' 'I thought it would be the wisest plan to leave the matter alone.' 'But you can't,' exclaimed Fielding.