Carstares’ glance grew sharper.

“Trouble? Not⁠—But I forget my manners⁠—we shall talk more at ease in here.” He led Mr. Beauleigh into the morning-room. Beauleigh thrust a paper into his hands.

“Diana went riding this afternoon, and only her horse returned⁠—with this attached to the pommel! Read it, sir! Read it!”

“Diana!” Carstares strode over to the light, and devoured the contents of the single sheet, with eager eyes.

They were not long, and they were very much to the point: