The two men looked at one another, Jennings searchingly, and Cuthbert with a look of mingled amazement and indignation. They were rather like in looks, both being tall, slim and fair-haired. But Mallow wore a mustache, whereas the detective, possibly for the sake of disguising himself on occasions, was clean-shaven. But although Jennings' profession was scarcely that of a gentleman, he looked well-bred, and was dressed with the same quiet taste and refinement as characterized Mallow. The public-school stamp was on both, and they might have been a couple of young men about town discussing sport rather than an officer of the law and a man who (it seemed from Jennings' hints) was suspected of complicity in a crime. "Do you mean this for a jest?" said Cuthbert at length. "I never jest on matters connected with my profession, Mallow. It is too serious a one." "Naturally. It so often involves the issues of life and death." "In this case I hope it does not," said Jennings, significantly. Cuthbert, who was recovering his composure, sat down with a shrug. "I assure you, you have found a mare's nest this time. Whatever my follies may have been, I am not a criminal." "I never thought you were," rejoined the other, also taking a seat, "but you may have become involved with people who are criminals." "I dare say half of those one meets in society are worthy of jail, did one know what is done under the rose," returned Cuthbert; "by the way, how did you come so opportunely?" "I knew you had gone out of town, as I came a few days ago to see you about this matter, and inquired. Your servant said you were in Devonshire--" "I went to see my mother who was ill," said Mallow quickly. "I guessed as much. You said something about your mother living in Exeter when we met last. Well, I had Paddington watch for your return, and my messenger--" "Your spy, you mean," said Mallow angrily. "Certainly, if you prefer the term. Well, your spy--I mean my spy, reported that you were back, so I came on here. Are you going out?" "I was, but if you wish to arrest me--" "Nonsense, man. I have only come to have a quiet chat with you. Believe me, I wish you well. I have not forgotten the old Eton days." "I tell you what, Jennings, I won't stand this talk from any man. Are you here as a gentleman or as a detective?" "As both, I hope," replied the other dryly, "but are we not wasting valuable time? If you wish to go out this evening, the sooner we get to business the better. Will you answer my questions?" "I must know what they are first," said Cuthbert defiantly. Jennings looked irritated. "If you won't treat me properly, I may as well leave the matter alone," he said coldly. "My position is quite unpleasant enough as it is. I came here to an old schoolfellow as a friend--" "To try and implicate him in a crime. Thanks for nothing."