He would do nothing in the way of active detective work--he would just wait and see what, if anything, turned up.
But upon one thing Copplestone had made up his mind determinedly before that second evening came--he would make no pretence to Audrey Greyle and her mother.

And availing himself of their permission to call again, he went round to the cottage, and before he had been in it five minutes told them bluntly that he was going to stay at Scarhaven awhile, on the chance of learning any further news of Bassett Oliver.
"Which," he added, with a grim smile, "seems about as likely as that I should hear that I am to be Lord Chancellor when the Woolsack is next vacant!" "You don't know," remarked Mrs.Greyle.

"A reward for information is to be offered, isn't it ?" "Do you think that will do much good ?" asked Copplestone.
"It depends upon the amount," replied Mrs.Greyle.

"We know these people.
They are close and reserved--no people could keep secrets better.

For all one knows, somebody in this village may know something, and may at present feel it wisest to keep the knowledge to himself.