The second day's search for Dorothy proved as ineffectual as the
first, and yielding with ill grace to the counsel of his friends, Sir
George Vernon submitted to retire from active search, and agreed
to remain at Haddon while others scoured the country round for the
truants.

"It is of no use," said the baron, "I cannot sleep. I shall not
attempt it to-night either. It is enough that I should consent to stay
at home."

"But you must have rest," expostulated Stanley, "or you will quickly
break down under the strain."

"I shall stay here, I tell you," was the dogged reply, "and receive
the reports as they come in. There are four or five out yet."

"Has Crowleigh returned?" asked Sir Thomas abruptly.

"Not yet; may he bring her back."

"'Tis most queer," soliloquised the young knight. "I cannot understand
it, I confess. Do you suspect him, Sir George?"

"No, I don't," he replied, bluntly, "do you?"

"I do now. I suspect the whole lot of them; and that Manners and De la
Zouch are at heart at daggers drawn."

"And Doll?"