human
You have seen your nephew, I believe?
gpt
Never. But--
human
That man, said Lord Wisbeach impassively,
gpt
But you--
human
But I pretended to recognise him? Just so. For a purpose. I wanted to make him think that I suspected nothing.
gpt
Then you think--?
human
Remember what I said to you yesterday.
gpt
But Skinner--the butler--recognised him?
human
Exactly. It goes to prove that what I said about Skinner was correct. They are working together. The thing is self-evident. Look at it from your point of view. How simple it is. This man pretends to an intimate acquaintance with Skinner. You take that as evidence of Skinner's honesty. Skinner recognises this man. You take that as proof that this man is really your nephew. The fact that Skinner recognised as Jimmy Crocker a man who is not Jimmy Crocker condemns him.
gpt
But why did you--?
human
I told you that I pretended to accept this man as the real Jimmy Crocker for a purpose. At present there is nothing that you can do. Mere impersonation is not a crime. If I had exposed him when we met, you would have gained nothing beyond driving him from the house. Whereas, if we wait, if we pretend to suspect nothing, we shall undoubtedly catch him red-handed in an attempt on your nephew's invention.
gpt
You are sure that that is why he has come?
human
What other reason could he have?
gpt
I thought he might be trying to kidnap Ogden.
human
It is possible, he said.
gpt
There have been several attempts made, have there not, to kidnap your son?
human
At one time, said Mrs. Pett proudly,
gpt
Of course, then, it is quite possible that that may be the man's object. In any case, our course must be the same. We must watch every move he makes. He paused.
human
I could help--pardon my suggesting it--I could help a great deal more if you were to invite me to live in the house. You were kind enough to ask me to visit you in the country, but it will be two weeks before you go to the Country, and in those two weeks--
gpt
You must come here at once, Lord Wisbeach. To-night. To-day.
human
I think that would be the best plan.
gpt
I cannot tell you how grateful I am for all you are doing.
human
You have been so kind to me, Mrs. Pett, said Lord Wisbeach with feeling,
gpt
It is wonderful of you, Lord Wisbeach.
human
Not at all, replied his lordship.
gpt
It will be a pleasure.