Part 72 (2/2)

he said grimly.

”It was a bad day when he escaped. How close are you to retaking him?”

Lord Henry was looking just as implacable.

”Close enough,” he said.

”Maybe it would have been last night if I hadn't been diverted on to other matters!”

”And at Hamp stead?”

Henry shrugged.

”A rumour... a suggestion that he had been seen. You know how it is, Sea grave--the rum ours have him everywhere from Clerkenwell to Chelsea! But yesterday I was closing in. I had found out where he had been hiding.”

”At the Royal Humane Society?” Sea grave asked, with a smile.

”Polly mentioned that she and Lucille had seen you there! They were most impressed by your interest in charitable work, old chap!”

Lord Henry laughed reluctantly.

”The only act of benevolence I would like to commit at present is ridding the earth of sc.u.m like Chapman! It was a masterstroke on his part to use the Society as cover. They are so tied up with their own generosity that they do not even press a fellow for his name. And what is one unkempt and ragged fugitive amongst so many dispossessed, looking for a few nights' shelter?”

”And the tale of a rich protector?” Sea graves asked, putting down his empty coffee cup.

Lord Henry hesitated.

”I have my suspicions...”

Sea grave nodded.

”Well, I had better be going. But I do thank you. Harry.

If you had not intervened. I hope it has not damaged your chances of taking your man. ” Lord Henry gave him a rueful smile and shook Sea- grave's proffered hand.

At the door the Earl paused.

”If you ever need any help, just let me know. Oh, and Harry--' The younger man looked at him enquiringly, ”Be careful,” Sea grave said.

”I realise why you intervened last night and I would not wish anything to prevent you from eventually making your declaration!”

And he raised his cane in mocking salute and left a startled Lord Henry staring at the door.

Chapter Seven.

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