For the last time artists and reporters came not to illustrate the triumphs, but to record the downfall of the great ducal house of Scott-Hereward; to make sketches, take photographs and write descriptions of the magnificent and splendid halls and chambers, picture-galleries and museums, before they should be dismantled by the rapacious purchasers who flocked to the vendue of Lone, to profit by the ruin of the proprietor.
And for the last time illustrations of Lone and its glories went forth over every part of the world where the English language is spoken, or the English mails penetrate.
Another heavy blow fell upon the doomed duke.

Even while the grand vendue was still in progress the duchess died of grief.
When all was over, and the good duchess was laid in the family vault, the duke and the young marquis disappeared from Lone and none knew whither they went.

Some said that they had gone to Australia; some that they were in America; some that they were on the Continent.

Others declared that they had hidden themselves in the wilderness of London, where they were living in great poverty and obscurity, and even under assumed names.
Opinions and rumors differed also concerning the character and conduct of the young marquis.

Many called him a devoted son, filled with the spirit of heroic self-sacrifice.