I believe he is either in their control, or
else dead."
"Then Coombs lied."
"Perhaps; although still another supposition is possible. Someone else
may claim to be the heir."
This was a new theory, and one not so unreasonable as it appeared at
first thought. Still it was sufficiently improbable, so that I
dismissed it without much consideration. She apparently read this in
my face.
"It is all groping in the dark until we learn more," she went on
slowly. "Have you decided what you mean to do?"
"Only indefinitely. I want to make a careful exploration of the house
and grounds by daylight. This may reveal something of value. Then we
will go into Carrollton before dark. I cannot consent to your
remaining here another night after what has occurred. Besides, we
should consult a lawyer--the best we can find--and then proceed under
his advice. Do you agree?"
"Certainly; and how can I be of assistance?"
"If you could go back to the house, and keep Sallie busy in the kitchen
for an hour; hold her there at something so as to give me free range of
the house."
"With Sallie!" she lifted her hands in aversion. "It does n't seem as
though I could stand that. But," she added, rising resolutely to her
feet, "I will if you wish it.
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