The evidence of the Barrymores shows that this had been his custom.
On the fourth of May Sir Charles had declared his intention of starting next day for London, and had ordered Barrymore to prepare his luggage.

That night he went out as usual for his nocturnal walk, in the course of which he was in the habit of smoking a cigar.

He never returned.

At twelve o'clock Barrymore, finding the hall door still open, became alarmed, and, lighting a lantern, went in search of his master.

The day had been wet, and Sir Charles's footmarks were easily traced down the alley.