"It is a matter upon which I should have to consult others." A sudden thought struck me.
"May I ask at whose suggestion you thought of me ?" I asked.
"It was Colonel Ray who pointed out certain necessary qualifications which you possess," the Duke answered.

"I shall report to him, and to some others, the result of our conversation, and I presume you have no objection to my making such inquiries as I think necessary concerning you ?" "None whatever," I answered.
The Duke rose to his feet.

I took up my cap.
"If Colonel Ray is in," I said, "and it is not inconvenient, I should be glad to see him for a moment." "Colonel Ray left unexpectedly by the first train this morning," the Duke answered, looking at me keenly.
I gave no sign, but my heart sank.
"If it is anything important I can give you his address," he remarked.
"Thank you," I answered, "it is of no consequence." There was a moment's silence.

It seemed to me that the Duke was watching me with peculiar intentness.
"Ray stayed with you late last night," he remarked.
"Colonel Ray was very kind," I answered.
"By-the-bye," he said, "I hear that some stranger lost his life in the storm last night.

You found the body, did you not ?" "Yes," I answered.