It was scarcely likely that she would go out on any casual expedition in her present state of uncertainty.

I made my way to the manager's office, whom I knew very well, and with whom I had often had a few minutes' talk.

He received me with his usual courtesy, and gave me a handful of cigarettes to try.

I lit one, and seated myself in his easy-chair.
"Mr.Helmsley," I said, "you know that I am not, as a rule, a curious person, and I should not like to ask you any questions which you thought improper ones, but you have some guests staying here in whom I am somewhat interested." Mr.Helmsley nodded, and by his genial silence invited me to proceed.
"I mean Mr.Delora and his niece," I continued.
The smile faded from the manager's face.
"The gentleman who did not arrive last night ?" he remarked.
I nodded.
"I travelled up with them," I said, "from Folkestone, and certainly Mr.Delora's behavior was a little peculiar as we neared London.

He seemed nervous, and anxious to quit the train at the earliest possible moment.