I am in possession
of the details of their proceedings, with which I need not trouble you.
The end is, that this person, whoever he may be, was cleverly turned
back southward on a false scent before the men in my employment crossed
the Firth.
"I mention the circumstance, as you may be better able than I am to find
a clew to it, and as it may possibly be of a nature to induce you to
hasten your journey.
"Your faithful servant,
"ALFRED DE BLERIOT."
XIV.
_From Mrs. Lecount to Mr. de Bleriot._
"November 1st.
"DEAR SIR--One line to say that your letter has just reached me at my
lodging in London. I think I know who sent the strange man to inquire at
Allonby. It matters little. Before he finds out his mistake, I shall be
at Dumfries. My luggage is packed, and I start for the North by the next
train.
"Your deeply obliged
"VIRGINIE LECOUNT."
THE FIFTH SCENE
BALIOL COTTAGE, DUMFRIES.
CHAPTER I.
TOWARD eleven o'clock, on the morning of the third of November, the
breakfast-table at Baliol Cottage presented that essentially comfortless
appearance which is caused by a meal in a state of transition--that is
to say, by a meal prepared for two persons, which has been already eaten
by one, and which has not yet been approached by the other.
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