For some time now, things have been happening in this district that have been worrying him dreadfully--several people have disappeared, without leaving the slightest trace; a dead child was found by the roadside, with no visible or ascertainable cause of death--sheep and other animals have been found in the fields, bleeding from open wounds.

There have been other matters--many of them apparently trivial in themselves.

Some sinister influence has been at work, and I admit that I have suspected Lady Arabella--that is why I questioned you so closely about the mongoose and its strange attack upon Lady Arabella.

You will think it strange that I should suspect the mistress of Diana's Grove, a beautiful woman of aristocratic birth.

Let me explain--the family seat is near my own place, Doom Tower, and at one time I knew the family well.