The Mystery of the Peacock's Eye by Brian Flynn

Mr. Stark-the manager of the Westhampton branch of the once ill-starred Mutual Bank-sat in his spacious private room on the Bank premises and thoughtfully stroked his chin with his long supple fingers. He then picked up the morning paper again and read a paragraph therein with much more than ordinary interest. This done he put the paper down on his table and resumed his previous occupation of chin-stroking. He was a man of striking appearance-tall-and of fine physique generally-debonair and always dressed in the height of good taste. When he had suddenly entered the industry of Westhampton-a matter of about fourteen months ago he had caused something akin to a sensation in Westhampton social circles, and many Westhampton hearts surrendered to his fascination. Rumour had it that he was extremely highly-connected and that he had been sent to Westhampton immediately following upon the scandal caused by Sir Felix Warburton's downfall-upon a special mission. Banks must be like the wife of Cesar! Rumour also had it that he was or had been intimate with such people as Sir Matthew Fullgarney-the late Major Carruthers and even with Lady Brantwood herself. Brantwood Castle, it may be observed was the biggest house for many miles around and Lady Brantwood suited it. It was evident that upon this particular morning something had occurred to worry him, and to cause him disturbance. Suddenly he came to what was obviously an important decision. He pressed the bell that communicated with the outer office. A junior clerk obeyed the summons.

"Tell Mr. Churchill that I want him, at once. If he's busy tell Mr. Jennings to go on the counter in his place. Churchill must come to me."