By this time Linton was growing rather restive under examination, as he was by no means pleased at having to acknowledge his indebtedness to a woman's wit. Seeing this Tait abruptly closed the conversation, so as to avoid waking the suspicions of Linton. "A very interesting conversation," he said heartily. "I like to get behind the scenes and see the working of a novelist's brain. We will say good-by now. Linton, and I hope you will call at the Manor House next week, when we will all three be at Thorston." "Delighted, I'm sure," replied the author, and thereupon melted into the crowd, leaving Claude and Tait looking at one another. "Well," said the former, after a pause, "we have not learned much." "On the contrary, I think we have learned a great deal," said Tait, raising his eyebrows. "We know that Linton got the whole story from Jenny Paynton, and that Mr. Hilliston is in possession of the knowledge." "What use can it be to him?" "He will try and frustrate us with Miss Paynton, as he did Mrs. Bezel with you." "Do you still doubt him?" asked Claude angrily. "Yes," replied Tait coolly, "I still doubt him." CHAPTER XVI. A FALSE MOVE. THE next day the two young men repaired to the club for the purpose of having luncheon and discussing their plans. Contrary to the wish of Claude, his friend did not deem it advisable to at once depart for Thorston, as he wished to remain in town for a few days on business connected with Hilliston. "You see, you are quite in the dark regarding that gentleman," said Tait, as they lighted their cigarettes after dinner, "and before we commence operations at Thorston it will be advisable to know that he is not counteracting our efforts." "In that case you had better go down to Thorston and I will remain in town so as to keep an eye on Hilliston." "I don't think that will be necessary," replied Tait reflectively, "it is more than probable that Hilliston will visit Thorston." "For what purpose?" "Can't you guess? Last night he learned from Linton that Jenny Paynton supplied the material for that novel. Consequently he will see her, and, if possible, find out where she heard the story." "Yes; I suppose he will," said Claude thoughtfully. "By the way, who is Miss Paynton, who now seems to be mixed up in the matter?" "She is the daughter of an old recluse called Ferdinand Paynton." "A recluse! Humph! That's strange." "Why so? You would not say so if you saw the old man. He is an invalid and lives in his library. A charming companion, though I must say he is rather sad." "Where does he live?" "At Thorston, half a mile from the Manor House. Not very rich, I should think. His cottage is small, like his income." "And his daughter lives with him?"