He may write to his friends, giving them a hint. The
whole thing will blow over."
"There may be cases such as you suggest, Sir Timothy," the
detective said quietly. "Our investigations, so far as regards
the young man in question, however, do not point that way."
Sir Timothy turned over his cigarette to look at the name of the
maker.
"Excellent tobacco," he murmured. "By-the-bye, what did you say
the young man's name was?"
"Reginald Wilmore," Francis told him.
"A good name," Sir Timothy murmured. "I am sure I wish you both
every good fortune in your quest. Would it be too much to ask
you now, Mr. Ledsam, for that single minute alone?"
"By no means," Francis answered.
"I'll wait in the office, if I may," Shopland suggested, rising
to his feet. "I want to have another word with you before I go."
"My business with Mr. Ledsam is of a family nature," Sir Timothy
said apologetically, as Shopland passed out. "I will not keep
him for more than a moment."
Shopland closed the door behind him. Sir Timothy waited until he
heard his departing footsteps. Then he turned back to Francis.
"Mr. Ledsam," he said, "I have come to ask you if you know
anything of my daughter's whereabouts?"
"Nothing whatever," Francis replied. "I was on the point of
ringing you up to ask you the same question.
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