ible explanation covered the facts as I knew them a moment back, I was forced to consider the points of your connection with these cathedral crimes, sir. But I am not all sure now, Mr. Preston and Miss Varris," he nodded reassuringly to the young people. "Perhaps as plausible and certainly a preferable explanation of Mr. Preston's peculiar conduct may be considered which would render his connection with the crimes still—still extraordinarily coincidental," he warned fairly, "but inconclusive—oh, quite inconclusive!"
"Why; what do you mean?" the girl looked to the Englishman. But Preston nodded his acknowledgment to the Briton and moved to lead her away.
"Thank you, Mr. Dunneston!" he forestalled further explanation. "Thank you, sir!"
The girl hesitated a moment; then gave her hand frankly to the Englishman.
"We shall see you again, Mr. Dunneston?" she said.
"Awfully good of him to think the case
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