For the moment a sudden fear drew
the color from his cheeks.
He looked apprehensively towards his unexpected visitor. Lord Runton,
however, showed no signs of any great discomposure. He was wearing his
ordinary dinner clothes, and in reply to Duncombe's first question
assured him that he had dined.
"I will try a glass of your port, if I may, George," he declared.
"Thanks!"
The butler had wheeled a chair up to the table for him, and left the
room. Lord Runton filled his glass and sent the decanter round. Then he
turned towards Spencer, to whom he had just been introduced.
"Mr. Spencer," he said, "my visit to-night is mainly to you. I dare say
you are aware that a somewhat unpleasant thing has happened at my house.
My people tell me that you called there this morning and inquired for
Mr. Fielding."
Spencer nodded.
"Quite true," he answered. "I called, but did not see him. He appears to
have left somewhat hurriedly while I was waiting."
"You did not even catch a glimpse of him?"
"No!"
"You know Mr. Fielding by sight, I presume?"
"I have seen him in Paris once or twice," Spencer answered.
"You will not think me impertinent for asking you these questions, I am
sure," Lord Runton continued apologetically, "but could you describe Mr.
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