"Nothing more than a mere coincidence," Henson replied. "It is just a little strange that you should mention his name here, especially after what had happened last night. I suppose that, being an American, you fell in love with the Rembrandt. It was you who suggested securing it in its place, and then preventing my little jest from being successfully carried out. Of course you have heard that the print was stolen once?" "The knowledge is as general as the spiriting away of the Gainsborough Duchess." "Quite so. Well, the man who stole the Rembrandt was Dr. Hatherly Bell. He stole it that he might pay a gambling debt, and it was subsequently found in his luggage before he could pass it on to the purchaser. I am glad you mentioned it, because the name of Bell is not exactly a favourite at the castle." "I am much obliged to you," said Chris, gravely. "Was Dr. Bell a favourite once?" "Oh, immense. He had great influence over Lord Littimer. He--but here comes Littimer in one of his moods. He appears to be angry about something." Littimer strode up, with a frown on his face and a telegram in his hand. Henson assumed to be mildly sympathetic. "I hope it is nothing serious?" he murmured. "Serious," Littimer cried. "The acme of audacity--yes. The telegram has just come. 'Must see you tonight on important business affecting the past. Shall hope to be with you some time after dinner!'" "And who is the audacious aspirant to an interview?" Chris asked, demurely. "A man I expect you never heard of," said Littimer, "but who is quite familiar to Henson here. I am alluding to that scoundrel Hatherly Bell." "Good heavens!" Henson burst out. "I--I mean, what colossal impudence!" CHAPTER XXIX THE MAN WITH THE THUMB AGAIN Chris gave Henson one swift searching glance before her eyes dropped demurely to the ground. Lord Littimer appeared to be taking no heed of anything but his own annoyance. But quick as Chris had been, Henson was quicker. He was smiling the slow, sad smile of the man who turns the other cheek because it is his duty to do so. "And when does Dr. Bell arrive?" he asked. "He won't arrive at all," Littimer said, irritably. "Do you suppose I am going to allow that scoundrel under my roof again? The amazing impudence of the fellow is beyond everything. He will probably reach Moreton Station by the ten o'clock train. The drive will take him an hour, if I choose to permit the drive, which I don't. I'll send a groom to meet the train with a letter. When Bell has read that letter he will not come here." "I don't think I should do that," Henson said, respectfully. "Indeed! You are really a clever fellow. And what would you do?"