The more Giles thought about Franklin, the more he was certain that he
was the man for whom search was being made. To be sure there was no
distinguishing mark of identification; the evidence that he was one and
the same amounted to the facts that he had large black eyes, and that
his height and figure resembled the so-called Wilson. Moreover, although
other people in the village had seen the clerk, no one but Giles seemed
to recognize him. In fact, this recognition was rather due to an
instinct than to any tangible reason. But in his own mind he was
convinced. He recalled how the man had suddenly removed his scarf as
though he were stifling on that night. He remembered the wan face, the
dark, anxious face, and the rough red beard and hair.
To be sure Franklin was dark-haired and sallow in complexion; also he
was clean-shaved, and even when not--according to Mrs. Parry--had worn a
full black beard. But the red hair and whiskers might have been assumed
as a disguise. Giles did not know very well how to verify his
suspicions. Then he determined to confide in Morley. Steel had told him
that the proprietor of The Elms was an ex-detective, and Giles thought
that for the sake of avenging Daisy's death he might be induced to take
up his old trade. With this idea he called at The Elms.
Morley was delighted to see him and welcomed him in the most cheerful
manner. He and Giles were always good friends, and the only subject of
contention between them was the question of Anne's guilt. Morley still
believed that the governess had committed the crime and asked after her
at the outset of the interview.
"Have you found her?" he asked, just as Mrs. Parry had done.
Giles knew quite well of whom he was speaking. "No, I have not," he
answered; "and if I had I certainly should not tell you."
"As you please," replied the little man complacently; "you will never
see the truth."
"It is not the truth. But see here, Morley, what is the use of our
discussing this matter? You believe Miss Denham to be guilty. I am
certain that she is innocent. Let the difference between us rest there.
Still, if I could prove the innocence of Miss Denham----"
"I should be more than delighted," responded Morley quickly, "and would
make all the amends in my power for my unjust suspicions. But you have
first to prove them unjust. Believe me, Ware, I admired Miss Denham as
much as my wife did, and thought much of her. I defended her from poor
Daisy's aspersions, and would have stood her friend all through but for
this last act of hers. Well! Well, don't get angry. I am willing to be
shown that I am wrong. Show me."
Giles reflected for a moment, then went straight to the point.
"I have been with Steel," he said abruptly, "and he tells me that you
have been in the detective line yourself."