“He may have disposed of some of them on the continent,” I said.  “However, we will soon clear that point up.  The size of the larger stones is so unusual that they would be certain to attract attention.  And now one other question.  Are you aware whether he has any friends or relatives in England?”

“So far as we know he has not a single relative in the world,” Kitwater replied.  “Have you ever heard of one, Coddy?”

The little man shook his head, and then, taking the other’s hand, tapped upon it with his fingers in the manner I have already described.

“He says Hayle had a sister once, of whom he was very fond.”  The tapping upon the hand continued, and once more Kitwater translated, “She was a cripple, and lived in a small house off the Brompton Road.  She died while Hayle was in North Borneo; is not that so, little man?”

Codd nodded his head to show that Kitwater had interpreted him correctly.  I then made some inquiries as to the missing man’s habits.  So far the description I had had of him was commonplace in the extreme.

“Do you know whether he shipped on board the Jemadar for England under his own name, or under an assumed one?”

“He booked his passage as George Bertram,” Kitwater replied.  “We know that is so, for we made inquiries at Rangoon.”

I next noted the name and address of the vessel’s owner, and resolved to pay him a visit next morning.  It would be hard if I could not learn from him something concerning Mr. Hayle, and where he had gone on landing.

“I think those are all the questions I want to ask you at present,” I said, closing my note-book.  “It would be as well perhaps for you to furnish me with your address, in order that I may communicate with you, should it be necessary.”

“At present,” said Kitwater, “we are staying with my niece at the village of Bishopstowe in Surrey.  My late brother was vicar of the parish for many years, and he left his daughter a small property in the neighbourhood.  They tell me it is a pretty place, but, as you are aware, I unfortunately cannot see it, and my friend Codd here cannot talk to me about it?”

He heaved a heavy sigh and then rose to depart.

“I must again express my gratitude to you, Mr. Fairfax,” he said, “for having consented to take up the case.  I feel certain you will ultimately be successful.  I will leave you to imagine with what anxiety we shall await any news you may have to give us.”

“I will communicate with you as soon as I have anything to report,” I answered.  “You may rely upon my doing my best to serve you.  By the way, are you aware that your niece called upon me this morning?”

He gave a start of surprise.

“No, I certainly did not know it,” he replied.  “She said nothing to us of such an intention.  I know that she is heart and soul with us in our desire to find Hayle.  But since you have seen her you probably know that?”