"Mr.Penrose could not have come here at a more appropriate time.

As it happens, Mr.Romayne has paid us a visit today--he is now in the picture gallery." The priests looked at each other.

Lord Loring left them as he spoke.

He walked to the opposite door of the library--opened it--glanced round the hall, and at the stairs--and returned again, with the passing expression of annoyance visible once more.

"Come with me to the gallery, gentlemen," he said; "I shall be happy to introduce you to Mr.Romayne." Penrose accepted the proposal.