It was difficult to guess where he got his information; but mere speculation on points of that kind was obviously useless.

The judge did know, and had made up his mind to settle down in Ballymoy as Miss King's guest.

Miss King had apparently received him; had even gone out fishing with him.

Meldon could find no explanation of the facts except one, and it was extremely unsatisfactory.

The judge must have imposed himself on Miss King, and induced her to receive him by means of threats.