"
"Does he think I have secret dungeons in my new abode," Sir
Timothy demanded, "or oubliettes in which I keep and starve
brainless youths for some nameless purpose? Be reasonable, Mr.
Ledsam. What the devil benefit could accrue to me from abducting
or imprisoning or in any way laying my criminal hand upon this
young man?"
"None whatever that we have been able to discover as yet,"
Francis admitted.
"A leaning towards melodrama, admirable in its way, needs the
leaven of a well-balanced discretion and a sense of humour," Sir
Timothy observed. "The latter quality is as a rule singularly
absent amongst the myrmidons of Scotland Yard. I do not think
that Mr. Shopland will catch even fish in the neighbourhood of
The Walled House. As regards your matrimonial proposal, let us
waive that until my daughter returns."
"As you will," Francis agreed. "I will be frank to this extent,
at any rate. If I can persuade your daughter to marry me, your
consent will not affect the matter."
"I can leave Margaret a matter of two million pounds," Sir
Timothy said pensively.
"I have enough money to support my wife myself," Francis
observed.
"Utopian but foolish," Sir Timothy declared. "All the same, Mr.
Ledsam, let me tell you this. You have a curious attraction for
me.
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