Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/93

 "He's on your property now," said the conscientious Nubbins.

"I can well believe it."

"But he's within his rights, for Mr. Wilson, he made a gamekeeper of him."

"The deuce you say! Set a thief to catch a thief, eh? I am learning a good deal since I left London this morning."

"Ah, they must be ignorant folk up in London."

"They are, Mr. Nubbins. Good evening to you. Thank you for your conversation, which I have enjoyed very much."

Nubbins beamed with gratification as he hobbled away, and Stranleigh walked up the street to the new library building. He was astonished to see, carved in a stone over the door—

The windows and doors of the red structure were all open, as if to allow the plaster to dry, but Stranleigh did not enter. He strolled down the road to the post-office, and sent away several telegrams to London. This done, he continued his walk to the gates of the park, but instead of going up hill to the Manor-house, he deflected his course until he came