Mrs. Beatson duly went away for her so-called holiday, which was simply a preface to her dismissal. Her presence was not required at the coming interview, as what she knew and what she had done did not touch immediately on Carrington's guilt. Also, neither Dorinda nor Sophy was to be present, as they could give no first-hand evidence. Rupert himself, Mallien, Ark and the doctor were the necessary people to prove that Carrington had struck the blow, and the Squire employed Kit to bring Lawson from Tarhaven for his share in the proceedings. And so that everything should be prepared beforehand for Lawson's action Rupert arranged that the officer should not arrive at The Big House until one o'clock. This would give Rupert and his friends sixty minutes to bring Carrington to bay. Tollart was both startled and surprised when the Squire called to explain why his presence was required at The Big House. He had thought little of Carrington's presence in the train on that fatal evening, and had not in any way connected his presence in Barship with the tragic death of Leigh. This he explained to his visitor, and suggested that, after all, some mistake had been made in crediting the barrister with the commission of the crime. But Hendle determined to put an end to all mystery, explained to Tollart all about the discovery of the will, and pointed out what a leading part the document had played in ensuing events. Tollart, who for once was sober, expressed his amazement and regret, less for the vicar's death than for Rupert's probable loss of his property. "And surely," said Tollart, in his husky voice, and with his big red face expressing sympathy, "surely Mallien will not take everything from you even if this will proves to be legal." "Oh, the will appears to be legal enough, doctor. And, knowing my cousin as you do, you may expect him to grab everything." "He'll make a bad Squire." "That's his lookout," replied Hendle with a shrug. "A bad lookout for the parish, Hendle. I don't set myself up for a saint, as I have my failings; but Mallien,"--the doctor made a face--"why, he'll ruin the place. Don't give in to him, if only for the sake of Barship. Fight him to the bitter end." "Oh, I'll protect my interests as best I can, you may be sure," answered Rupert, pleased that Tollart was on his side. "But that matter can be attended to later. What we have to do now, is to force Carrington into confession. I take it that you are sure it was Carrington who came down in the same train with you, doctor?" "Certainly. I know him well by sight, as he called on me, when he first visited you, to get some remedy for toothache. I never forget a face, and I saw your friend both on the Liverpool Street platform and at the Barship station." "Did Carrington try to escape observation?"