But, the airing of the old facts had led some one concerned to suggest that it would be well before they were reconsigned to their gloomy shelf--now probably for ever--to induce or compel that Mr Julius Handford to reappear and be questioned.

And all traces of Mr Julius Handford being lost, Lightwood now referred to his client for authority to seek him through public advertisement.
'Does your objection go to writing to Lightwood, Rokesmith ?' 'Not in the least, sir.' 'Then perhaps you'll write him a line, and say he is free to do what he likes.

I don't think it promises.' 'I don't think it promises,' said the Secretary.
'Still, he may do what he likes.' 'I will write immediately.

Let me thank you for so considerately yielding to my disinclination.

It may seem less unreasonable, if I avow to you that although I don't know Mr Lightwood, I have a disagreeable association connected with him.