"He left town some weeks ago." The intruder turned sharply, and with a brisk inquisitive movement strode past him and pushed open the dining-room door.

There he stood for a moment, his eyes roaming over the meagre appointments of the interior--the sideboard, bare of everything but a pitcher and some tumblers--the old mahogany table littered with law books and papers--the mantel stripped of its clock and candelabras.

Then he stepped inside, and without explanation of any kind, crossed the room, opened the door of St.George's bedroom, and swept a comprehensive glance around the despoiled interior.

Once he stopped and peered into the gloom as if expecting to find the object of his search concealed in its shadows.
"What has happened here ?" he demanded in a voice which plainly showed his disappointment.
"Do you mean what has become of the rest of the furniture ?" asked the attorney in reply, gaining time to decide upon his course.
"Yes, who is responsible for this business ?" he exclaimed angrily.

"Has it been done during his absence ?" Pawson hesitated.