"Since you suggest that my presence may be of service to you, I
am happy that circumstances should have delayed my departure,"
was his lordship's courteous answer. "A chair, Dom Miguel."

Dom Miguel Forjas accepted the proffered chair, whilst Wellington
seated himself at Sir Terence's desk. Sir Terence himself remained
standing with his shoulders to the overmantel, whence he faced
them both as well as Grant, who, according to his self-effacing
habit, remained in the background by the window.

"I have sought you," began Dom Miguel, stroking his square chin,
"on a matter concerned with the late Count Samoval, immediately
upon hearing that the court-martial pronounced the acquittal of
Captain Tremayne."

His lordship frowned, and his eagle glance fastened upon the
Secretary's face.

"I trust, sir, you have not come to question the finding of the
court-martial."

"Oh, on the contrary - on the contrary!" Dom Miguel was emphatic.
"I represent not only the Council, but the Samoval family as well.
Both realise that it is perhaps fortunate for all concerned that
in arresting Captain Tremayne the military authorities arrested
the wrong man, and both have reason to dread the arrest of the
right one."

He paused, and the frown deepened between Wellington's brows.