I am somewhat anxious about this coming bit of work, and a little reluctant as well, but it must be done, and that promptly.
Just outside of the avenue gate I encounter a servant from the Hill House, and accost him.
"Yes, she is at home; she has been disturbed by the bells," and has sent him to inquire into the cause of the commotion.
She does not know, then! I heave a sigh of relief and hurry on.
I cross the avenue, and follow the winding foot-path leading up to the front entrance. I make no effort to see Jim or Gerry, at the barn; I feel sure that they are equal to any emergency that may arise.
Miss Manvers is standing at an open drawing-room window; she sees my approach and comes herself to admit me.
She, I note, seems anxious and somewhat uneasy, and she sees at a glance that I am not the jaunty, faultlessly-dressed young idler of past days, but a dusty, dishevelled, travel-stained individual, wearing, instead of the usual society smile, a serious and preoccupied look upon my face.
"Miss Manvers," I say, at once, "you will pardon my abruptness, I trust; I must talk with you alone for a few moments."
She favors me with a glance of keen inquiry, and a look of apprehension crosses her face.
Then she turns with a gesture of careless indifference, and leads the way to the drawing-room, where she again turns her face toward me.
"I have before me an unpleasant duty," I begin again; "I have to inform you that Arch Brookhouse has been arrested."
"The charge against him is a grave one," I say, letting her question pass unanswered. "He is accused of attempted abduction."
"Attempt first, upon myself, in June last. Second attempt, upon Dr. Carl Bethel."
"I wish they could hang him for it!" she says, vindictively. Then she looks me straight in the eyes. "Did you come to tell me this because you fancy that I care for Arch Brookhouse?" she questions.
"Because I am a detective, and it was my duty to come. There is more to tell you. 'Squire Brookhouse and his gang were arrested last night in the act of removing stolen horses from your barn."
Her face pales and she draws a long sighing breath, but she does not falter nor evince any other sign of fear.
"So it has come," she says. "And now you are here to arrest me. I don't think I shall mind it much."