It's Tom's and my first party, you know." And she kissed all the gentlemen, from the Duke downward, and Tom, hovering in the hall, pressed his farewell refreshments, as far as they would go, upon them and gave them a "leg up" into their carriages.
Dr Brandram stayed till the end.
"I should have to come and see Mrs Parker in the morning in any case," said he, "so I have told Raffles to make me a shake down in Armstrong's room to-night.

I may as well stay here." The precaution, however, was unnecessary.

Mr Ratman had vanished.

He did not call on Mr Pottinger next morning, nor was he to be found at the hotel.

He had returned by the early morning train to London..