He was not alone, and his companion was Detective Inspector Abbott. She had been about to go upstairs, but she paused and waited for them with a smiling face and an outstretched hand. Frank Abbot took the hand and reciprocated the smile. Adrian Grey having mentioned that there was a Miss Silver staying in the house, he was by no means unprepared for the appearance of the lady whom he had been known in moments of expansion to address as Revered Preceptress. They were, all jesting apart, on a footing of deep attachment, and, upon Frank’s side, of a most unfeigned respect. As always in the presence of a stranger, she addressed him with formality. ‘Inspector Abbott—this is indeed a pleasure!’ Frank, on his side, was equally punctilious. ‘My dear Miss Silver! Grey told me that you were here. Perhaps we could have a talk—if you can spare me a little time?’ Adrian passed on, and they were alone. Miss Silver coughed.
