The events of the story were talked about everywhere; but, in spite of all that was done and said, Lord Mountdean's heiress remained undiscovered.

Months grew into years, and the same mystery prevailed.

The earl was desperate at first--his anguish and sorrow were pitiful to witness; but after a time he grew passive in his despair.

He never relaxed in his efforts.
Every six months the advertisements with the offers of reward were renewed; every six months the story was retold in the papers.

It had become one of the common topics of the day.