“That is as you please, sir.”

Something in the suave voice made Richard, from his stand by the desk, glance sharply down at the lawyer. Suspicion flashed into his eyes. He seemed about to speak, when Warburton continued:

“I believe I may set your mind at rest on one score, Mr. Carstares: his lordship’s situation is tolerably comfortable. He has ample means.”

“But⁠—but he lives by⁠—robbery!”

Warburton’s thin lips curled a little.

“Does he not?” persisted Carstares.

“So he would have us believe, sir.”

“ ’Tis true! He⁠—waylaid me!”

“And robbed you, sir?”