Page:The Eyes of Max Carrados.pdf/232

230 such things really do happen now and then, you know, and why not?"

"You don't know of any threats or blackmailing letters?"

"No," admitted the young man; "but I do know this, that if Una was at liberty she would never allow another actress to take her place and use her name in this way."

"A very significant suggestion," put in Carrados from his detached attitude. "Mr Enniscorthy has given you a really valuable hint, Louis."

"I don't mean that Miss Roscastle is really out-of-the-way jealous," Enniscorthy hastened to add, "but in her profession"

"Oh, most natural, most natural," agreed the urbane Carlyle. "Everyone has to look after his own interest. Now"

"I don't suppose that you are particularly keen on this act," interposed the blind man. "Are you, Mr Enniscorthy?"

"I'd much rather be doing something," was the reply.

"I was going to suggest that you might go round to Westphalia Mansions, just to make sure that there is no one there now. Then if you would find your way to our table at the Savoy we could hear your report."

"Yes, certainly. I shall be glad to think that I can be of some assistance by going."

Mr Carlyle's optimistic temper was almost incapable of satire, but he could not refrain from, "You can—poor beggar!" on Enniscorthy's departure. "I suppose," he continued, turning to his friend, "I suppose you think that Stokesey may? Eh?"

"I fancy that in the absence of our young friend he may be induced to become more confidential. He may