Not the smallest suspicion of foul play, or of its being anything but a most unfortunate accident, was entertained for a moment by any one who heard the evidence, and the verdict of the jury was to that effect: Accidental Death.
As the crowd pressed out of the inquest-room, jostling one another in the gloom of the evening, and went their several ways, Lord Hartledon found himself close to Gorton, his coat flapping as he walked.

The man was looking round for Pike: but Mr.Pike, the instant his forced evidence was given, had slunk away from the gaze of his fellow-men to ensconce himself in his solitary shed.

To all appearance Lord Hartledon had overtaken Gorton by accident: the man turned aside in obedience to a signal, and halted.

They could not see much of each other's faces in the twilight.
"I wish to ask you a question," said Percival in low, impressive, and not unkindly tones.

"Did you speak with my brother, Lord Hartledon, at all on Tuesday ?" "No, my lord, I did not," was the ready answer.