CHAPTER VIII
the labors of the four
Despite the storm, Sir Walter slept through the night, and did not waken until his man drew the blinds upon a dawn sky so clear that it seemed washed of its blue. He had directed to be wakened at six o'clock.
"What of Mr. May?" he asked.
"Masters wants to know if we shall call him, Sir Walter."
"Not if he has returned to his room, but immediately if still in the Grey Room."
"He's not in his own room, sir."
"Then seek him at once."
The valet hesitated.
"Please, Sir Walter, there's none much cares to open the door."
He heard his daughter's voice outside at the same moment.
"Mr. May has not left the Grey Room, father."
"I'll be with you in a moment," he answered.
Then he rose, dressed partially, and joined her. She was full of active fear.
"All went well at two o'clock," she said, "for I crept out to listen. So did Masters. Mr. May's voice sounded clear and steady."
They found the butler at the door of the Grey Room. He was pale and mopping his forehead.
"I've called to him, but it's as silent as the
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