"Quite sure, sir; for I was most anxious to discover them, and took great pains, but without success." "What did the people say thereabouts? Was there no suspicion of the father being implicated?" "I do not think there was. He gave evidence at the inquest, and so did I, sir, as you may suppose, most unwillingly; for the boy was a favourite of mine. I beg your pardon, sir--you say you are acquainted with Major McShane, and saw him this morning; is the interesting little boy you speak of as under his protection now at home or still at school?" "I really cannot positively say," replied McShane; "but this is not holiday-time. Come, sir, we must not part yet; your conversation is too interesting. You must allow me to call for some more brandy; poor as I am, I must treat myself and you too. I wish I knew where I could pick up a little money; for, to tell you the truth, cash begins to run low." Furness was now more than half drunk. "Well, sir," said he; "I have known money picked up without any difficulty: for instance, now, suppose we should fall in with this young rascal who committed the murder; there is 200 pounds offered for his apprehension and conviction." "I thought as much," muttered McShane; "the infernal scoundrel! I suspect that you will find him where you are going to, Mr Furbish, he's got that far by this time." "Between you and I, I think not, sir. My name is Furness, sir--I beg your pardon--not Furbish." "Why you do not think he would be such a fool as to remain in the country after such an act?" "The wicked are foolish, sir, as well as others," replied Furness, putting his finger to his nose, and looking very knowingly. "That's truth, sir. Help yourself; you drink nothing. Excuse me one minute; I'll be back directly." McShane left the box for a few minutes to explain to his wife what he was about, and to give time for the liquor to operate upon Furness. As he expected, he found, on his return, that Furness had finished his glass, and was more tipsy than when he left him.