“I shall have to disappoint you, I perceive. I doubt Bow Street has never heard of me⁠—and⁠—to tell the truth⁠—’tis not an occupation which appeals vastly to my senses.”

“Then why, my lord, do you continue?”

“I must have some excuse for roaming the country,” pleaded Jack. “I could not be idle.”

“You are not⁠—compelled to⁠—er⁠—rob, my lord?”

Carstares wrinkled his brow inquiringly.

“Compelled? Ah⁠—I take your meaning. No, Warburton, I have enough for my wants⁠—now; time was⁠—but that is past. I rob for amusement’s sake.”

Warburton looked steadily across at him.

“I am surprised, my lord, that you, a Carstares, should find it⁠—amusing.”