"Still," said Ernest, "you may be quite sure that it's what the world will say. In any case, it can't fail to do us a lot of mischief." "Oh, that will depend on circumstances when the mystery is cleared up, as I imagine it soon must be." Then Gilbert spoke of their father's condition, and suggested that Ernest should take Francis Eversleigh to Surbiton as soon as the doctor gave permission. As for himself, he was going on to Scotland Yard to see Inspector Gale. "What am I tell Kitty?" asked Ernest. "I'll write her a note, which you will give her. Of course, I should have liked to have broken the sad news to her myself; but from what I know of her, I am sure that she would prefer me to lose no opportunity of unravelling the mystery of her father's death. Besides, she has always believed, since she knew of Mr. Thornton's disappearance, that he was dead." And Gilbert sat down and wrote his love a letter, full of the tenderest feeling, in which he told her of the discovery which had been made that day, and of which his brother Ernest would give her more complete details. Then he went on to say that he would not spare himself in trying to elucidate the whole strange business, nor would he lose any time; therefore, he would see Inspector Gale that very afternoon; he would go to Scotland Yard, in fact, immediately after sealing the letter to her. But he would be at Surbiton in the evening. When Gilbert did reach Scotland Yard, he found Gale expecting him. "I was waiting for you, Mr. Gilbert," said the inspector. "Yes?" "One of the constables told me you asked when I would be in, and he replied at half-past two; it is a quarter-past three now. By the way, how is your father? I hear he was so shocked that he fainted twice." "He is better now, but still very much shaken. I left him in the doctor's charge, and when he is able to go my brother Ernest will take him home." "I think his home is in Surbiton?" "Yes; I told you that when we were discussing the disappearance of Mr. Thornton." "Quite so. A day or two's rest will pull your father round. Of course, I must see him. Do you think he will be fit to see me to-morrow?" "I should think so. And he must be as anxious as anybody--indeed, more anxious than anybody--to have this extraordinary affair cleared up." "Certainly. Now, Mr. Gilbert, let me hear everything from the beginning. Take your own time about it, and try not to forget anything. Don't leave out the slightest touch that may have any bearing on the subject." "I will do my best," said Gilbert. "My father, on learning of the death of Mr. Silwood, sent for me this morning." "Excuse me," interrupted the inspector, "but I must ask you questions as you go along. Was it this morning your father heard of Mr. Silwood's death, and how did he hear of it?"