Arriving rapidly at these conclusions, Sir Patrick rang the bell in the hall which communicated with the servants' offices, and summoned his own valet--a person of tried discretion and fidelity, nearly as old as himself.
"Get your hat, Duncan," he said, when the valet appeared, "and come out with me." Master and servant set forth together silently on their way through the grounds.

Arrived within sight of the summer-house, Sir Patrick ordered Duncan to wait, and went on by himself.
There was not the least need for the precaution that he had taken.
The summer-house was as empty as the library.

He stepped out again and looked about him.

Not a living creature was visible.

Sir Patrick summoned his servant to join him.
"Go back to the stables, Duncan," he said, "and say that Miss Lundie lends me her pony-carriage to-day.