Chapter 2

_From Mr. Loscombe to Mrs. Noel Vanstone._

"Lincoln's Inn, November 5th.

"DEAR MADAM--Your letter and its inclosure have caused me great concern
and surprise. Pressure of business allows me no hope of being able
to see you either to-day or to-morrow morning. But if three o'clock
to-morrow afternoon will suit you, at that hour you will find me at your
service.

"I cannot pretend to offer a positive opinion until I know more of
the particulars connected with this extraordinary business than I find
communicated either in your letter or in your maid's. But with this
reserve, I venture to suggest that your remaining in London until
to-morrow may possibly lead to other results besides your consultation
at my chambers. There is at least a chance that you or I may hear
something further in this strange matter by the morning's post. I
remain, dear madam, faithfully yours,

"JOHN LOSCOMBE."