“I hope not,” said Eugene; “my father having been a shipper of lime before me, and my grandfather before him⁠—in fact we having been a family immersed to the crowns of our heads in lime during several generations⁠—I beg to observe that if this missing lime could be got hold of without any young female relative of any distinguished gentleman engaged in the lime trade (which I cherish next to my life) being present, I think it might be a more agreeable proceeding to the assisting bystanders, that is to say, lime-burners.”

“I also,” said Lightwood, pushing his friend aside with a laugh, “should much prefer that.”

“It shall be done, gentlemen, if it can be done conveniently,” said Mr. Inspector, with coolness. “There is no wish on my part to cause any distress in that quarter. Indeed, I am sorry for that quarter.”

“There was a boy in that quarter,” remarked Eugene. “He is still there?”