“I have not a word to say if such is your wish. I will take you now to a solicitor whom I know.” “Dr. Tarbot wishes me to consult a solicitor of the name of Wilkinson.” “He is a smart man, but I think I prefer Cornish. John Cornish is very just, and has had a vast amount of criminal practise.” “Just as you please, Mr. Carroll. I will put myself into your hands.” “Then we’ll go to Cornish. I will have a hansom whistled for, and we’ll drive there at once.” Mrs. Pelham rose. In a few moments’ time the pair were driving in the direction of Cornish’s chambers in Lincoln’s Inn Fields. They found him at home. Carroll had a brief interview with the lawyer first; afterwards Cornish saw the widow and took her instructions. “I will get a warrant immediately from the magistrate of the district where the child died,” he said. “Sir Richard Pelham will be arrested early to-morrow morning.” CHAPTER XXX. THE BOLT. It wanted now but three days to Christmas, and Pelham and his wife were very busy. They were happy in their new life, and all Pelham’s suspicions had rolled away like a cloud on a summer’s morning. He was sorry for Piers, sorry for the child’s early death, but his own life now fully occupied him. Pelham was a good fellow. He was married to the girl he loved. Day by day he saw more of the charm and beauty of her character—she was all his. To pour his riches at her feet, to surround her with glory and honor were his delight. Yes, he would live a good life, the best life of all, for the sake of his tenantry and for the sake of Barbara. Mrs. Pelham’s message and her sudden departure puzzled the young couple. “What can it mean?” said Barbara. “Mrs. Pelham was not going to leave us until long after Christmas. My mother arrives to-morrow. What can be the matter?” “She doubtless had her reasons,” said Pelham. “She will write and tell you when she gets to town.” “I wonder what Dr. Tarbot really wanted with her?” continued Barbara. Pelham drew his wife to his side. “Don’t let us talk about Tarbot,” he said. “Why so?” “I dislike the man so cordially. What about that Christmas tree?” Barbara brightened up. “I shall go into Exeter to-day,” she said, “and I will buy the things necessary for the tree there. Will you come with me, Dick?” “I cannot. I have to see Manson about the lease for the South Meadow Farm. It is a lovely day, and you may as well drive over to Exeter. The horses are eating their heads off, and a long run will do them good.” The pair had this conversation in their room before they went down to breakfast. On the breakfast table several letters awaited them. Amongst others was one from Mrs. Evershed. In this she announced her intention of arriving at Pelham Towers by a certain train in the afternoon.