An hour passed before he saw it, but when his eye at length fell on the envelope he was roused to attention.

He took out a sheet of blue note-paper, covered with large, clerkly writing.
"DEAR SIR, "We have at length been able to trace the person concerning whom you are in communication with us.

He is at present living in Bristol, and we think is likely to remain there for a short time yet.

Will you favour us with a call, or make an appointment elsewhere?
"We have the honour to be, dear Sir, "Yours faithfully, "TULKS & CROWE." He paced the room, holding the letter behind his back.

It was more than three weeks since the investigation referred to had been committed to Messrs.