The man, with a little confusion in his manner, came quickly towards him.

Over his shoulder Thresk saw Stella Ballantyne staring at him, as if he had risen from the grave.

Then, as he took Ballantyne's extended hand, Stella swiftly raised her hand to her throat with a curious gesture and turned away.

It seemed as if now that she was sure that Thresk stood there before her, a living presence, she had something to hide from him..