"Not like a professional, sir, but now we don't keep a chauffeur I
often drive to the station."

"That's satisfactory. I may want the car to-morrow evening, but nobody
else must know about this."

"Very good, sir," said John. "When you're ready you can give me your
instructions; they'll go no further."

Then he dipped a rag in the oil and began to rub a gun, and Foster went
out, feeling satisfied. It was plain that he could rely upon the old
fellow, who he thought was unflinchingly loyal to the Featherstones.
After all, it was something to have the respect and affection of one's
servant.




IX

THE FALSE TRAIL

When Foster got up next morning he had made his plan, and spent ten
minutes explaining it to John. The old fellow understood his orders,
and although he listened with formal deference, the faint twinkle in
his eyes showed that he approved. After breakfast, Foster asked
Featherstone to come out on the terrace and while they walked about
indicated the line he thought it best to take.

Featherstone agreed, but expressed some misgivings. "There may be